Excoriation
Pronunciation: /ˌɛkskɔːrɪˈeɪʃən/
A secondary skin lesion consisting of a linear or angular superficial abrasion caused by scratching or picking.
Full Definition
Excoriation is a secondary skin lesion produced by mechanical removal of the epidermis through scratching, picking, or rubbing, typically in response to pruritus. It presents as a linear, angular, or irregular superficial erosion or crusted abrasion and is a clinical marker of itch severity in conditions such as atopic eczema, scabies, and excoriation disorder. Editors must distinguish excoriation from erosion (which is not necessarily scratch-induced) and from ulceration (which extends into the dermis or deeper). In the DSM-5 context, 'excoriation disorder' is a psychiatric diagnosis involving compulsive skin picking; editors should be alert to this dual usage.
Usage
Usage note: In psychiatric or psychological contexts, 'excoriation disorder' (DSM-5) refers to compulsive skin picking and must not be conflated with the dermatological description of a scratch mark.
In Context
- "Multiple linear excoriations on the forearms and shins indicated severe pruritus secondary to the eczematous rash." — Clinical examination findings
- "The psychiatric liaison team was consulted when excoriations were found to be self-induced in the absence of primary dermatosis." — Multidisciplinary team note