Final answer:
Macules are smooth, non-raised discolorations, vesicles are small fluid-filled bumps, papules are small raised bumps, and pustules are pus-producing lesions. Conditions like impetigo can present with these features, leading to encrusted sores upon rupture.
Step-by-step explanation:
Differentiation Between Skin Lesions
Dermatological conditions can manifest in various kinds of skin lesions such as macules, vesicles, papules, and pustules. Macules are smooth spots of discoloration on the skin without any elevation or depression relative to the skin surface. Vesicles are small, fluid-filled bumps on the skin, often seen in conditions like chickenpox. Papules are small raised bumps without fluid and can be seen in conditions such as acne. Pustules are pus-producing; suppurative bumps on the skin, which are often seen in bacterial infections like impetigo.
Conditions such as impetigo can present with vesicles, pustules, and, in more severe cases, bullae, which are large blisters. These skin manifestations can lead to crusted sores upon rupture. Health care workers can transmit bacteria asymptomatically, resulting in skin conditions like MRSA. Differentiation among these lesions is important for accurate diagnosis and treatment.