What is an example of a tertiary lesion?

A keloid is an example of a tertiary lesion because it represents an advanced stage of skin change that occurs after the healing process. Tertiary lesions are often related to previous injuries or inflammation and involve structural changes in the skin, such as excessive scar formation. Keloids result from an overproduction of collagen during the healing process, leading to raised, thickened scars that extend beyond the original injury site.

In contrast, other types of lesions, such as bulla, macula, and papule, are classified as primary or secondary lesions. Bulla refers to a fluid-filled blister, macula refers to a flat discolored area, and papule is a small raised bump on the skin. These lesions do not typically involve the same level of structural dermal change or chronicity associated with tertiary lesions. Thus, keloids, as a form of tertiary lesion, highlight the long-term effects and changes that can occur following injury or inflammation in the skin.