What is the term for any traumatic or pathological change in the structure of the skin?

The term for any traumatic or pathological change in the structure of the skin is "lesion." In a medical context, a lesion refers to any abnormal change in tissue, which can result from various factors such as injury, disease, or infection. Lesions can encompass a wide range of conditions, including sores, wounds, rashes, or growths, and they may appear on the skin's surface, affecting its integrity and function.

Scar, while related to skin changes, specifically refers to the fibrous tissue that forms as part of the healing process after a wound or injury has occurred. Scar tissue is a specialized form of tissue that replaces normal skin tissue but does not encompass all changes in skin structure.

An ulcer is a specific type of lesion characterized by the loss of surface tissue, often associated with inflammation and infection. While ulcers are indeed pathological changes, they represent a narrower category within the broader definition of lesions.

An abscess is also a type of lesion but is specifically a localized collection of pus that may occur in response to infection. It indicates a certain type of lesion but does not cover all traumatic or pathological changes.

Thus, "lesion" is the most comprehensive and appropriate term to describe any traumatic or pathological change in the structure of the