What does the term 'induration' refer to in a medical examination?

Induration refers to a hardened area in normally soft tissue, often resulting from inflammation, edema, or the accumulation of certain types of cellular material. In a medical examination, induration can be a sign of various underlying conditions, such as infection or an immune response. The presence of induration indicates that the tissue has undergone a change in consistency, typically hardening due to increased connective tissue or inflammation.

This term is particularly significant in dermatology and when assessing various conditions, such as palpable lymph nodes, skin lesions, or reactions to allergens, where distinguishing between normal and altered tissue states is crucial for diagnosis and treatment. Understanding induration helps healthcare providers identify potential health concerns and manage patients more effectively.