What term describes a pimple?

The term that accurately describes a pimple is "pustule." A pustule is a small, inflamed, pus-filled lesion that typically occurs in conditions such as acne. It is characterized by a raised bump on the skin's surface, often red at the base and filled with white or yellow pus, indicating an infection or inflammation. This term specifically refers to the presence of pus, which distinguishes it from other types of skin lesions.

In contrast, a papule is a small, solid, elevated bump on the skin that is usually less than 1 centimeter in diameter and does not contain pus. It may be red and may indicate inflammation but is distinctly different from a pustule. A verruca refers to a wart caused by the human papillomavirus, and stratum pertains to a layer of tissue in the skin. Understanding these definitions helps clarify the distinctions between different types of skin lesions and the appropriate terminology used in dermatology.