What does increased turgor pressure suggest about the skin?

Increased turgor pressure refers to the elasticity and firmness of the skin, which indicates an area of normal hydration. When a veterinarian assesses skin turgor, they typically pinch the skin and observe how quickly it returns to its original position. If the skin returns promptly, it suggests that the body is adequately hydrated. This is an essential evaluation in clinical assessments of hydration status in animals.

In contrast, decreased turgor would suggest dehydration, as the skin loses its elasticity when fluid levels are low. Conditions like infection could also affect skin texture, but they would not specifically indicate increased turgor pressure. Skin laxity might imply underlying issues such as age or certain diseases but does not correlate with increased turgor pressure either. Thus, when interpreting increased turgor pressure, it’s clear that it signifies normal hydration in the skin.