Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 19, 2026
06:50
A Soluble Tetrazolium-Based Reduction Assay to Evaluate the Effect of Antibodies on Candida tropicalis Biofilms
Published on: September 16, 2022
[Tzanck smears: an old but useful diagnostic tool]
Moema Mignac Cumming Brito1, Daniela Chaves Tarquínio, Darlene Arruda
1Hospital das Clínicas, USP, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil.
Anais Brasileiros De Dermatologia
|October 24, 2009
Summary
Tzanck smears are a valuable diagnostic tool for various skin conditions. This case highlights their effectiveness in diagnosing pemphigus vulgaris through cheek mucosa examination.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pathology
- Cytology
Background:
- Tzanck smears are a diagnostic method for cutaneous conditions.
- They can aid in identifying infections, tumors, and autoimmune disorders.
Observation:
- A case report details a female patient presenting with symptoms suggestive of an autoimmune disorder.
- Cheek mucosa smears were obtained for cytological examination.
Findings:
- Conventional cytology of the cheek mucosa smears revealed characteristic findings.
- The diagnosis of pemphigus vulgaris was confirmed by positive direct immunofluorescence.
Implications:
- This case underscores the utility of Tzanck smears in diagnosing autoimmune blistering diseases like pemphigus vulgaris.
- Cytological analysis combined with immunofluorescence offers a reliable diagnostic pathway.
Related Concept Videos
01:25Rapid Identification of Pathogens
MALDI-TOF MS has transformed clinical microbiology by offering a rapid and reliable method for pathogen identification. The traditional approach to microbial identification typically involves time-consuming culture techniques and biochemical tests, which can delay the initiation of appropriate antimicrobial therapy. MALDI-TOF MS avoids these delays by using characteristic ribosomal protein mass patterns of microbial cells, enabling accurate species-level identification within minutes.Principle...
01:24Automated Microbial Diagnostics
Automated diagnostic analyzers have transformed clinical microbiology by providing rapid and reliable methods for pathogen identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing. Among these systems, the Vitek 2 is widely used because it automates the traditionally labor-intensive processes of microbial identification (ID) and antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST), delivering standardized and timely results that are essential for effective patient care.Microbial Identification with ID CardsThe...