What is the definition of an abrasion?

An abrasion is specifically defined as a scraping or rubbing away of the skin or mucous membrane. This type of injury often occurs when the skin comes into contact with a rough surface, resulting in the outer layer of the skin being removed or damaged. Unlike cuts, which penetrate through the skin and may affect deeper layers, an abrasion typically only affects the epidermis and superficial layers of the skin.

Understanding the nature of abrasions is important for proper diagnostic coding and treatment decision-making in a clinical setting. In contrast, the other options describe different types of injuries or conditions: infections refer to the presence of pathogens leading to skin inflammation, cuts imply a more severe disruption through the skin’s layers, and burns involve thermal damage to the skin. Thus, the clarity in boundaries between these definitions is crucial for accuracy in medical documentation and coding.