What is an elevation of skin containing pus called?

A pustule is defined as an elevation of the skin that contains pus. This pus is typically a mixture of dead white blood cells, bacteria, and tissue debris, resulting from an inflammatory response to an infection or some irritants. Pustules are often seen in conditions like acne and other inflammatory skin disorders, where they appear as small, raised lesions with a whitish or yellowish center due to the accumulation of pus.

In dermatology, understanding the difference between pustules and other skin lesions is key for accurate diagnosis and treatment. For instance, papules, while also raised but without pus, are solid, elevated lesions that do not contain fluid. Lesions is a broader term that encompasses any abnormal change in the skin, which can include various types of elevations and is not specifically indicative of pus. Wheals are raised, itchy areas of skin that represent a localized allergic reaction and are fluid-filled rather than pus-filled. Recognizing these distinctions is vital for effective cosmetology and dermatological practice.