HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

Which condition is not typically associated with a change in skin color but rather with structural changes?

1. Petechiae

2. Induration

3. Ecchymosis

4. Erythematous color

The correct answer is: Induration

Induration refers to the process where an area of tissue becomes hard or thickened, indicating underlying changes in the tissue structure, often due to inflammation, infection, or other pathological processes. Unlike conditions that lead to noticeable changes in skin color, such as petechiae, which are small red or purple spots due to bleeding under the skin, or ecchymosis, which involves larger bruise-like areas from blood leakage, induration signifies a structural alteration without an immediate visual color change. Erythematous color also specifically indicates redness of the skin, highlighting an inflammatory response. Thus, induration is clearly distinguished as it points toward a modification in the tissue's consistency or density rather than its coloration, making it the correct choice in this context.