Definition of Papule
Papule: A small solid rounded bump rising from the
skin that is usually less than 1 centimeter in diameter (less than 3/8 inch across).
Papules may open when scratched and become crusty
and infected.
The term "papule" is derived from Latin from "papula," a pimple.
Dermatologists (and other physicians) call any small solid circumscribed bump in the skin a papule, as opposed to a vesicle which contains fluid or a macule which is flat and even with the surrounding skin.
Last Editorial Review: 7/15/2000
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