A................is an elevation of skin filled with fluid and is less than 1 cm in diameter?

Appeared in: JODHPUR AIIMS SNO-2018

Explanation

A vesicle is defined as a raised, fluid-filled lesion that is less than 1 cm in diameter.
The question describes a lesion that is elevated, contains fluid, and is smaller than 1 cm.
This definition directly corresponds to that of a vesicle.
Examples of conditions that present with vesicles include chickenpox and herpes simplex.

Option A: A wheal is a transient, raised, edematous (swollen) lesion caused by dermal fluid collection, not a distinct fluid-filled sac within the epidermis. It is often associated with itching.
Option C: A papule is a solid, elevated lesion. It is not filled with fluid.
Option D: A macule is a flat, discolored spot on the skin. It is neither elevated nor fluid-filled.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Identification and classification of primary skin lesions as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Accurate identification of skin lesions is a fundamental nursing skill essential for correct documentation, communication with the healthcare team, and monitoring disease progression or treatment effectiveness.
Differentiating between a vesicle (fluid-filled) and a papule (solid) is critical for diagnosis. For example, vesicles are characteristic of viral infections like herpes or varicella, while papules are common in conditions like acne or lichen planus.
What if the lesion was described as being greater than 1 cm in diameter? If all other characteristics (elevated, fluid-filled) remained the same, the correct term would be a 'bulla,' not a vesicle.

How to Approach the Question

First, break down the question to identify the key characteristics of the skin lesion described: 1) it is an elevation, 2) it is filled with fluid, and 3) it is less than 1 cm in diameter.
Next, recall the definitions of the primary skin lesions provided in the options.
Evaluate each option against the characteristics from the question.
A 'Wheal' is edematous but not a distinct fluid-filled sac. A 'Papule' is solid, not fluid-filled. A 'Macule' is flat, not elevated.
A 'Vesicle' is defined as a small (less than 1 cm), elevated, fluid-filled lesion, which perfectly matches all three criteria.
Therefore, select 'Vesicle' as the correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Pathology- ROBBINS & COTRAN PATHOLOGIC BASIS OF DISEASE 10TH Ed p. 1134-1136

E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 2 p. 1835-1837

E6 Medicine Harrison 22e Part 1 p. 418-420

Practise the full JODHPUR AIIMS SNO-2018

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.