Skin Lesions

Alternate Names : Lesions on the Skin

How is the condition diagnosed?

The cause of some skin lesions can be diagnosed after a history and examination of the rash. Other lesions may be more difficult to identify, so further tests may be needed.

The tests that are ordered depend on the suspected cause of the problem. For example, a blood test called an antibody titer can help diagnose some infections and autoimmune conditions. A blood glucose level test can help diagnose diabetes. Blood tests such as a serum pregnancy test can help diagnose pregnancy.

Sometimes, a biopsy of the affected skin is needed. In this procedure, a small piece of skin is removed with a special tool. The skin can then be analyzed in the lab to identify the cause of the lesion.

Other tests may sometimes be needed, as well. For example, the provider may order a chest x-ray if he or she suspects a lung infection is causing the rash.