Utah Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What is the definition of a fissure in medical terms?

1. A type of wound

2. An infection

3. A type of cyst

4. A growth on the skin

The correct answer is: A type of wound

A fissure, in medical terminology, refers to a narrow crack or opening in the skin or mucous membrane. This definition aligns with the concept of a wound, as fissures are often the result of various conditions that lead to skin or tissue being broken down or torn. They commonly occur in areas where the skin is subjected to repeated movement or pressure, leading to a split or rupture. While the other options describe different medical concepts, they do not fit the specific definition of a fissure. For example, infections involve the invasion of pathogens, cysts are closed sac-like structures that can contain fluid or semi-solid material, and growths on the skin refer to various formations that may not involve any cracks or openings. Understanding how a fissure is categorized as a type of wound helps in recognizing its ramifications in both treatment and diagnosis in the field of esthetics and dermatology.