Macules
Macules
Macules (pronunciation: /ˈmakjuːlz/) are small, flat, distinct, discolored areas of skin that are usually less than 1 centimeter in diameter. They are a common type of dermatological lesion and can occur due to a variety of causes, including infections, allergies, autoimmune diseases, and genetic disorders.
Etymology
The term 'macule' originates from the Latin word 'macula', which means 'spot' or 'stain'. It was first used in the medical context in the late 14th century.
Types of Macules
There are several types of macules, including:
- Melanocytic macules: These are caused by an increase in melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color.
- Hypomelanotic macules: These are caused by a decrease in melanin.
- Erythematous macules: These are red due to inflammation or dilation of blood vessels in the skin.
- Purpuric macules: These are red or purple due to bleeding under the skin.
Related Terms
- Patch: A patch is a large macule, over 1 centimeter in diameter.
- Papule: A papule is a small, raised lesion.
- Nodule: A nodule is a larger, raised lesion.
- Plaque: A plaque is a large, raised lesion.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Macules
- Wikipedia's article - Macules
This WikiMD article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.
Languages: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
Urdu,
বাংলা,
తెలుగు,
தமிழ்,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
русский,
português do Brasil,
Italian,
polski