When assessing a lesion, what is an important sign of possible infection?

Redness and swelling around a lesion are significant signs of possible infection because they indicate inflammation, which is a response of the body to injury or infection. Inflammation is characterized by increased blood flow to the affected area, leading to redness, warmth, and swelling. This response is part of the immune system's efforts to isolate and eliminate pathogens, such as bacteria, that may have entered the body through the wound.

While itching can be a symptom of various skin conditions, it is not a definitive indicator of infection. Increased hair growth is often unrelated to infection and can be influenced by other factors such as hormonal changes or other skin conditions. Dryness around a lesion does not typically suggest infection; rather, it might indicate a lack of moisture or other dermatological issues. Therefore, the presence of redness and swelling is a clear and important sign to monitor when assessing the possibility of infection in a lesion.