The evaluation of skin wounds begins with a history and physical exam.

Physical findings in someone with a skin wound may include:

• Abrasion
• Bruising
• Laceration
• Puncture wound
• Skin redness
• Skin swelling
• Skin tenderness

Tests are not necessary to make the diagnosis of a skin wound. Tests may be required to find a skin foreign body, or to look for damage to the tissue beneath the skin.

Tests that may be used to evaluate a skin wound include:

• Exploration of the wound
• X-rays of the wound
• Ultrasound of the wound
• MRI of the wound

For more information:

• Abrasion evaluation
• Burn evaluation
• Laceration evaluation
• Puncture wound evaluation
• Skin foreign body evaluation
• Skin ulcer evaluation