Purulence, or pus on the skin, is known as which term?

Purulence, or pus on the skin, is known as which term?

• A. Dermatitis
• B. Abscess
• C. Pyorrhea
• D. Pyoderma

Answer: (D)

Purulence on the skin is described by the term pyoderma. Pyoderma comes from pus (pyo) and skin (derma), naming a purulent skin infection where pus is produced due to bacterial activity. An abscess is a localized pocket of pus within tissue and isn’t the general term for pus on the skin, though it can be a component of a pyoderma. Dermatitis is inflammation of the skin, which may involve various symptoms but is not defined by pus production. Pyorrhea refers to purulent discharge from mucous membranes, typically dental, not the skin. Hence, pyoderma is the correct term for pus on the skin.

Purulence on the skin is described by the term pyoderma. Pyoderma comes from pus (pyo) and skin (derma), naming a purulent skin infection where pus is produced due to bacterial activity. An abscess is a localized pocket of pus within tissue and isn’t the general term for pus on the skin, though it can be a component of a pyoderma. Dermatitis is inflammation of the skin, which may involve various symptoms but is not defined by pus production. Pyorrhea refers to purulent discharge from mucous membranes, typically dental, not the skin. Hence, pyoderma is the correct term for pus on the skin.