Oregon Esthetician State Board

What are secondary lesions characterized by?

1. Normal skin tones

2. Changes in the structure of tissues and organs

3. Inflammatory responses only

4. Only chemical burns

The correct answer is: Changes in the structure of tissues and organs

Secondary lesions are indeed characterized by changes in the structure of tissues and organs. This definition encapsulates various skin conditions that evolve as a result of primary lesions or other underlying issues. For instance, primary lesions such as macules, papules, or vesicles can lead to secondary lesions like scars, crusts, or ulcers as they heal or progress in condition. In contrast, other choices do not encompass the definition of secondary lesions. For example, normal skin tones pertain to the appearance of skin rather than any lesions, thus failing to relate to the structural changes that secondary lesions undergo. The notion of inflammatory responses only is too narrow since secondary lesions can arise from a myriad of causes, not restricted to inflammation. Similarly, stating that secondary lesions are only defined by chemical burns overlooks the broad range of conditions that can lead to structural alterations in the skin and tissues, such as infections, autoimmune diseases, or other forms of skin trauma.