Advanced Health Assessment Practice Exam

What characterizes a bulla as a primary skin lesion?

1. Larger than 1cm, single chambered, superficial in epidermis

2. Turbid fluid (pus) in cavity, circumscribed and elevated

3. Non-fluid filled, irregular edges

4. Small, raised lesions filled with serum

The correct answer is: Larger than 1cm, single chambered, superficial in epidermis

A bulla is characterized as a primary skin lesion primarily by its defining features. It is larger than 1 cm, is typically single-chambered, and occurs superficially within the epidermal layer of the skin. This characteristic size and structure distinguish it from other skin lesions. The specific definition aligns with how bullae are identified in clinical practice, as they present as fluid-filled sacs that can be found on the skin surface. Factors such as being larger than 1 cm and being single chambered are particularly significant because they help in differentiating bullae from smaller vesicles, which are also fluid-filled lesions but generally measure less than 1 cm. The superficial location within the epidermis indicates that the lesion is not deeply embedded within the skin layers, further confirming its classification as a primary skin lesion. In contrast, other options describe different types of skin lesions or characteristics not associated with a bulla. For instance, lesions filled with pus suggest an inflammatory process and are not typically classified as bullae. Similarly, lesions that are non-fluid filled or described as small and raised would pertain to different dermatological entities. Understanding these distinctions allows for precise identification and management of skin lesions in clinical assessment.