In
dermatology, an
abrasion is a
wound caused by superficial damage to the
skin, no deeper than the
epidermis. It is less severe than a
laceration, and bleeding, if present, is minimal. Mild abrasions, also known as
grazes or
scrapes, do not
scar or bleed, but deep abrasions may lead to the formation of scar tissue. A more traumatic abrasion that removes all layers of skin is called an
avulsion.