HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What distinguishes a bulla from a vesicle?

1. A bulla is smaller than 1cm

2. A bulla is a fluid-filled sac larger than 1cm

3. A bulla contains pus, while a vesicle does not

4. A bulla has a broad base

The correct answer is: A bulla is a fluid-filled sac larger than 1cm

A bulla is defined as a fluid-filled sac that is larger than 1 cm in diameter. This characteristic makes it distinct from a vesicle, which is a smaller fluid-filled lesion, typically less than 1 cm in size. Understanding the size difference is crucial in dental terminology because it helps clinicians differentiate between various types of lesions when assessing conditions in the oral cavity. The other options do not accurately characterize a bulla. For example, stating that a bulla is smaller than 1 cm contradicts the established definition. Similarly, the idea that a bulla contains pus, while a vesicle does not, is misleading since both lesions can contain fluid and may be associated with various underlying conditions. Lastly, the notion of a bulla having a broad base is not a standard property that helps to distinguish it from a vesicle. Therefore, recognizing that a bulla must be larger than 1 cm is essential for accurate identification in dental practice.