Arizona Esthetics State Board Practice Exam

What term is used for mechanical abrasions or injuries to the epidermis?

1. Ulceration

2. Excoriation

3. Laceration

4. Friction burn

The correct answer is: Excoriation

The term that refers to mechanical abrasions or injuries to the epidermis is "excoriation." This term specifically describes a superficial loss of skin or abrasion that typically occurs due to scratching or other forms of trauma to the skin surface. In clinical terms, excoriations can result from various causes, including behavioral factors, such as scratching due to itch, or mechanically caused injuries from rough objects. Ulceration refers to deeper tissue loss that goes beyond the epidermis and usually involves the dermis. Laceration implies a tear or cut in the skin, which can also penetrate deeper layers, whereas friction burn is a specific type of abrasion that occurs due to the skin's contact with a rough surface, causing damage; it does not specifically encapsulate all forms of mechanical injury. Excoriations, however, are singularly focused on surface abrasions of the epidermis, making it the most accurate term among the options provided.