Sore Shin lesions on tobacco plants can result in plant death, if the lesion encircles the plant stem.
However, most cases of sore shin are never detected because plants never show any symptoms and 
recover.  The top picture is from transplanted tobacco from a conventional plant bed.  Plants with a 
sore shin lesion around the entire stem causes plant death (Middle).  Plants may decline and die 
leaving skips in the field (Bottom).

(Photo 2 & 3 by Adrienne M. Rich, Extension Educator, Agriculture and Natural Resources, Harrison County IN)