Abrasion

For other uses, see Abrasion (disambiguation).

Abrasion on the palm of a right hand, shortly after falling

Abrasions on elbow and lower arm, still healing. The elbow wound will produce a permanent scar.

In dermatology, an abrasion is superficial damage to the skin, generally not deeper than the epidermis. It is more superficial than an excoriation, although it can give mild bleeding. Mild abrasions do not scar, but deep abrasions may lead to the development of scarring tissue.

Most commonly, abrasion injuries occur when exposed skin comes into moving contact with a rough surface causing trauma to the upper layers of the epidermis.

Such injuries, where caused by abrasive contact with textiles or carpet, are sometimes referred to in United Kingdom English as 'carpet burns'.

Abrasion

See also