Pathology dictionary

Spongiosis

Spongiosis

What does spongiosis mean?

Spongiosis is a word pathologists use to describe the way specialized cells called squamous cells look when they have been pushed apart by fluid.

Many body surfaces, including the skin and the inside of the mouth are covered by squamous cells. These cells normally stick tightly together to protect the tissue below. If these cells become injured, fluid can get in between the cells.

Spongiosis is not a diagnosis because it can be caused by many different types of injuries or diseases. Spongiosis is commonly seen in inflammatory conditions of the skin.

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