Final answer:
In dermatology, a fissure is a linear crack in the skin that may extend into the dermis and can result from skin damage or dryness. It often occurs in areas where the skin bends or folds and can increase the risk of infections if not properly cared for.
Step-by-step explanation:
A fissure in dermatological terms refers to a linear crack or slit in the skin, which can extend into the dermis layer. This condition is often a response to damage or dryness and can be painful. Fissures are commonly found in areas of the body where the skin bends or folds, such as between the toes, or in cases of cheliosis, at the corners of the mouth.
Injury to the skin, such as fissures, can make it easier for microbes to enter and potentially lead to infections. Conditions like contact dermatitis or delayed-type hypersensitivity reactions also represent types of skin responses to external stimuli that can result in damage or lesions. Proper care and treatment are important to prevent complications that may arise from skin fissures and other dermatological responses to injury.