Abrasion

Book
In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan.
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Excerpt

Abrasions are superficial injuries that occur on the skin and visceral linings of the body, disrupting tissue continuity. They are typically minor wounds, mainly limited to the epidermis, and usually do not cause significant bleeding. Most abrasions heal without leaving any scars. However, if the abrasion extends into the dermis, it may result in scar tissue formation during the healing process.

Abrasions most commonly occur due to friction against the epidermis, leading to the denudation of the outer layer. Abrasions appear in various forms of blunt trauma, with friction and impact being the most common mechanisms. While less frequent, pressure abrasions can have a greater medicolegal significance, especially for identifying the causative material.

Publication types

  • Study Guide