Washington Master Esthetics Practice Exam

What type of skin lesion is a flat, discolored spot on the skin?

1. Papule

2. Macule

3. Vesicle

4. Wheal

The correct answer is: Macule

A flat, discolored spot on the skin is referred to as a macule. This type of lesion is characterized by its non-palpable nature, meaning it does not have a raised or elevated texture. Macules are usually less than 1 centimeter in diameter and can vary in color from brown to red to white, depending on the underlying cause or condition affecting the skin. In contrast, other types of lesions differ significantly in their characteristics. For instance, a papule is a raised bump on the skin, often solid and usually smaller than 1 centimeter, while a vesicle is a small, fluid-filled blister. A wheal, commonly associated with allergic reactions, is a raised, itchy area of skin that can be transient. Understanding the definitions and characteristics of these terms is crucial for accurately identifying skin lesions in practice.