Final answer:
Excoriation is caused by scratching or rubbing of the skin, leading to irritation, inflammation, and damage to the skin's surface.
Step-by-step explanation:
Excoriation is caused by scratching or rubbing of the skin. When the skin is scratched or rubbed, it can lead to irritation, inflammation, and damage to the skin's surface. Excoriation can be a result of various factors such as allergies, skin disorders, or even psychological conditions. It is often a response to itching or discomfort on the skin's surface. This behavior can lead to skin damage. Unlike cutaneous candidiasis, which is a fungal infection caused by Candida albicans, or conditions like athlete's foot or ringworm, excoriation is a physical response, not a microbial infection. Conditions like eczema involve allergic reactions and can cause itching, but excoriation refers specifically to the damage caused by the physical act of scratching or rubbing, not the underlying condition.