What does a lesion look like after a tick bite? - briefly
The bite site typically appears as a small, red papule that can enlarge into a circular, expanding rash with a clear center. When Lyme disease develops, this erythema migrans may grow to several centimeters in diameter within days.
What does a lesion look like after a tick bite? - in detail
A skin reaction following a tick attachment typically begins as a small, red macule at the bite site, often measuring less than 1 cm in diameter. Within days, the lesion may enlarge, becoming an annular or oval erythematous area with a clear center, commonly referred to as a “target” or “bull’s‑eye” pattern. The peripheral margin is usually raised, slightly raised, and may feel warm to the touch. Color ranges from pink to deep red, occasionally developing a dusky or purplish hue if inflammation intensifies.
Key characteristics include:
- Size: expands up to 5 cm or more, often exceeding 3 cm in classic presentations.
- Shape: round, oval, or irregular; may exhibit a central clearing that creates a ring‑like appearance.
- Border: well‑defined, sometimes slightly raised; edges may be sharply demarcated from surrounding skin.
- Central punctum: a tiny opening or scar where the tick mouthparts remained, occasionally visible as a small brown or black dot.
- Texture: smooth to slightly raised; rarely ulcerated unless secondary infection occurs.
- Evolution: may persist for weeks, gradually fading without scarring if untreated; can progress to larger, confluent areas if the underlying infection spreads.
Additional manifestations can arise, such as:
- Papular lesions: small, raised bumps surrounding the primary area, indicating a localized hypersensitivity response.
- Vesicles or pustules: fluid‑filled lesions that suggest secondary bacterial infection or a more severe inflammatory reaction.
- Necrotic center: darkened, dead tissue at the core, signaling tissue damage or delayed treatment.
The timing of appearance varies: erythema may emerge within 24–72 hours, while the classic expanding ring often develops after 5–7 days. Persistent or rapidly enlarging lesions, especially those exceeding 5 cm, warrant immediate medical evaluation due to the risk of tick‑borne diseases such as Lyme borreliosis.