Abrasion
an abrasion is a wound caused by superficial damage to the skin, no deeper than the epidermis. It is less severe than a laceration, and bleeding, if present, is minimal. Mild abrasions, also known as grazes or scrapes, do not scar or bleed, but deep abrasions may lead to the formation of scar tissue. A more traumatic abrasion that removes all layers of skin is called an avulsion
Abrasion injuries most commonly occur when exposed skin comes into moving contact with a rough surface, causing a grinding or rubbing away of the upper layers of the epidermis.
Treatment
The abrasion should be cleaned and any debris removed. A topical antibiotic (such as Neosporin or bacitracin ) should be applied to prevent infection and to keep the wound moist. Dressing the wound is optional[1] but helps to keep the wound from drying out which interferes with healing. If the abrasion is painful, a topicalanalgesic (such aslidocaine or benzocaine) can be applied, but for large abrasions a systemic analgesic may be necessary
|