What Are Secondary Lesions

Secondary lesions are those lesions that are characteristically brought about by modification of the primary lesion either by the individual with the lesion or through the natural evolution of the lesion in the environment.

What is a primary lesion?

Primary lesions, which are associated with specific causes on previously unaltered skin, occur as initial reactions to the internal or external environment. Vesicles, bullae, and pustules are formed by fluid within skin layers. Nodules, tumors, papules, wheals, and plaques are palpable, elevated, solid masses.

How do primary and secondary skin lesions differ?

Primary skin lesions are abnormal skin conditions that may be present at birth or acquired later. Secondary skin lesions are a result of irritated or manipulated primary skin lesions. For example, a crust that forms following a scratch or an infected allergic wheal.