Acantholysis is a term pathologists use to describe the loss of connections between skin cells in the outermost layer of the skin, known as the epidermis. When these connections break down, the cells separate from each other, creating spaces within the epidermis. This process can lead to the formation of blisters or erosions on the …
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The epidermis is the thin, outermost layer of your skin. It acts as a protective shield between your body and the outside world. Although it is only about as thick as a sheet of paper in most places, the epidermis plays a crucial role in preventing harmful germs, chemicals, and physical forces from damaging your …
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Pemphigus is a group of rare autoimmune diseases that affect the skin and mucous membranes (the moist surfaces inside your mouth, nose, throat, and genitals). The outer layer of these tissues is made of keratinocytes, which are flat cells arranged like tiles on a roof. In pemphigus, the immune system produces antibodies that target specific …
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The phrase interface changes is used by pathologists to describe a specific pattern of inflammation and damage seen at the junction between the epithelium (the surface layer of cells that lines the skin, mouth, and other mucosal surfaces) and the underlying connective tissue (called the dermis in skin or lamina propria in mucosal tissue). This area …
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Atypical fibroxanthoma (AFX) is a rare skin tumour that typically affects older adults with sun-damaged skin. It most often develops in areas exposed to long-term ultraviolet (UV) light, such as the scalp, face, or ears. Although AFX can appear concerning under the microscope, it typically behaves in a non-aggressive (low-grade) manner when strict diagnostic criteria …
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Pathologists use the term atypical melanocytic proliferation when they see a skin lesion made up of melanocytes (the cells that produce pigment) that does not look completely normal under the microscope. These lesions show some unusual or atypical features but do not have all the features needed to confidently label them as benign (non-cancerous) or …
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A nevus (plural: nevi) is a medical term used to describe a growth or spot on the skin that develops from melanocytes. Melanocytes are the cells in the skin that produce melanin, the pigment responsible for skin and hair colour. Most nevi are harmless and commonly called moles, though the term nevus includes various pigmented …
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Psoriasiform dermatitis is a term for a reactive pattern of skin changes that can result from several different underlying conditions. It is called psoriasiform because the changes resemble those seen in psoriasis. What are the symptoms of psoriasiform dermatitis? People with psoriasiform dermatitis often notice red patches of skin with a dry or flaky surface …
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Keratoacanthoma is a rapidly growing but benign (noncancerous) type of skin tumour. It typically involves hair-bearing skin on the face, although other body parts can occasionally be involved. What causes keratoacanthoma? Keratoacanthoma is believed to be caused by excessive sun exposure. However, in many cases, the tumour only grows after the skin is involved in …
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Keratinocytes are the most common type of cell found in the outer layer of your skin, called the epidermis. These cells are named for the protein they produce, called keratin. Keratin is a strong, protective protein that helps make your skin, hair, and nails tough and resistant to damage. Keratinocytes form a barrier that protects …
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