Which term refers to a sudden raised area of the skin that is usually itchy?

Which term refers to a sudden raised area of the skin that is usually itchy?

• A. Dermatitis
• B. Wheal
• C. Lipoma
• D. Urticaria

Answer: (B)

A wheal is a sudden raised, edematous area of the skin that is typically itchy. It happens when small vessels leak fluid into the dermis, creating a transient bump that often fades within hours. This distinguishes it from dermatitis, which is a broader inflammatory skin condition presenting with red, itchy patches that can be long-lasting and scaly. A lipoma is a soft, benign lump of fat under the skin and is usually neither sudden nor itchy. Urticaria refers to the overall condition of hives, which consists of these wheals; so the specific raised itchy patch described is best termed a wheal.

A wheal is a sudden raised, edematous area of the skin that is typically itchy. It happens when small vessels leak fluid into the dermis, creating a transient bump that often fades within hours. This distinguishes it from dermatitis, which is a broader inflammatory skin condition presenting with red, itchy patches that can be long-lasting and scaly. A lipoma is a soft, benign lump of fat under the skin and is usually neither sudden nor itchy. Urticaria refers to the overall condition of hives, which consists of these wheals; so the specific raised itchy patch described is best termed a wheal.