Which term refers to lesions that are a different color than the skin and/or raised above the surface?

The term that refers to lesions that are a different color than the surrounding skin and/or raised above the surface is "primary lesions." Primary lesions are the initial reactions to an underlying problem and can vary in size, color, and texture. They are generally the first indicators of skin disease and include structures like papules, macules, nodules, and wheals, which are significant for diagnosing various skin conditions.

In contrast, secondary lesions are those that develop as a result of changes in primary lesions or from external factors affecting the skin, such as scratching or infection. Macules are flat changes in skin color that do not rise above the surface, while pustules are pus-filled lesions that may be raised but are defined by their content rather than color difference. This distinction emphasizes the role primary lesions play in identifying skin issues and their characteristics.