Crust

Definition

A crust is a hardened layer of dried blood, plasma, or exudate on the skin's surface, often forming over a wound or infection site. It serves as a protective barrier during the healing process.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Crust formation is a common response to skin infections and injuries.
2. Crusts can contain microorganisms that were present in the original wound or infection.
3. The color of a crust can vary based on the composition of its fluids, commonly appearing yellow, brown, or red.
4. Removing a crust prematurely can disrupt the healing process and potentially cause scarring.
5. Crusts are different from scabs in that they include exudates like pus and not just clotted blood.

Review Questions

• What role does a crust play in the healing process of a skin infection?
• How can premature removal of a crust affect wound healing?
• What are some visual indicators that help differentiate between a crust and other types of skin lesions?

Related terms

Scab: A hardened covering formed from coagulated blood over a wound.

Exudate: Fluid rich in protein and cellular debris that has escaped from blood vessels due to inflammation.

Eschar: A piece of dead tissue that falls off from healthy skin after an injury.