What is the medical term for a small, blisterlike elevation of the skin containing clear fluid?

The medical term for a small, blisterlike elevation of the skin that contains clear fluid is classified as a vesicle. Vesicles are typically less than 1 centimeter in diameter and are filled with a serous fluid, which is clear and watery. They are often formed in response to conditions such as allergic reactions, infections, or mechanical irritation.

Understanding the characteristics of vesicles is important in the context of clinical diagnostics, as they can help differentiate between various skin conditions. For example, vesicles are commonly seen in conditions like chickenpox, herpes simplex virus infections, and contact dermatitis. Their identification allows healthcare professionals to develop appropriate treatment plans based on the underlying cause of the vesicles.

While other terms like pustule and blister are related to skin elevations, they describe different characteristics. Pustules contain pus and are indicative of infections or inflammatory conditions, while blisters can refer to a broader category that includes both vesicles and larger fluid-filled sacs. Macules, on the other hand, are flat and do not contain fluid, making them distinct from vesicles.