What does the term papules refer to?

The term "papules" refers to small, raised solid lesions on the skin that are typically less than 1 centimeter in diameter. They are a type of primary skin lesion and can be red, inflamed, or skin-colored. Papules can be seen in various skin conditions, and they differ from other types of lesions in their characteristics.

Pustules, which are often confused with papules, are actually filled with pus and are generally larger and can be more inflamed, distinguishing them from papules. While both can appear on the skin, the defining feature of a papule is that it does not contain fluid or pus.

Blisters are fluid-filled sacs on the skin, while abscesses are collections of pus that result from infection, and scabs are dried fluids that form over a wound. None of these terms accurately describe what papules are, making the understanding of papules essential in various veterinary dermatological conditions.