Which term describes pus on the skin?

Which term describes pus on the skin?

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

Answer: (A)

Pus on the skin is described by the term pyoderma. Pyoderma literally means a purulent (pus-producing) skin infection, which covers conditions where pus is present on or in the skin due to bacterial infection. This distinguishes it from an abscess, which is a localized pocket of pus inside the tissue rather than broadly on the skin; dermatitis, while it can involve skin redness and discharge, is an inflammatory condition not defined by pus production; and pyorrhea refers to pus discharge from mucous membranes, typically dental or oral sites, not the skin. So when you see pus present on the skin, pyoderma is the most accurate term.

Pus on the skin is described by the term pyoderma. Pyoderma literally means a purulent (pus-producing) skin infection, which covers conditions where pus is present on or in the skin due to bacterial infection. This distinguishes it from an abscess, which is a localized pocket of pus inside the tissue rather than broadly on the skin; dermatitis, while it can involve skin redness and discharge, is an inflammatory condition not defined by pus production; and pyorrhea refers to pus discharge from mucous membranes, typically dental or oral sites, not the skin. So when you see pus present on the skin, pyoderma is the most accurate term.