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Pagetoid dyskeratosis in dermatopathology
Angel Santos-Briz1, Javier Cañueto, Sofía del Carmen
1*Dermatopathologist, Service of Dermatology, Department of Pathology, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain; †Dermatologist, Service of Dermatology, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain; ‡Pathologist, Department of Pathology, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain; §Dermatologist, Service of Dermatology, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain; and ¶Dermatologist, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Salamanca (IBSAL), Salamanca, Spain.
Pagetoid dyskeratosis (PD), a skin finding, was identified in 2.24% of biopsies. It most commonly occurred in melanocytic nevi and other benign lesions, often on the head, neck, and trunk.
Area of Science:
- Dermatopathology
- Histopathology
- Skin Biology
Background:
- Pagetoid dyskeratosis (PD) is an incidental finding in various skin conditions.
- Understanding the incidence and characteristics of PD is crucial for accurate dermatopathological diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and clinical-pathological variables of pagetoid dyskeratosis (PD).
- To analyze the frequency and distribution of PD in skin biopsies.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 3565 skin biopsies over one year.
- Evaluation of clinical and dermatopathological variables using defined criteria for PD cells.
- Identification of PD cells based on size, nuclear pyknosis, perinuclear halo, and cytoplasm.
Main Results:
- Pagetoid dyskeratosis (PD) was found in 80 cases (2.24%).
- Melanocytic nevi were the most common associated lesions, followed by soft fibromas, angiofibromas, and acrochordons.
- PD cells were typically located in the mid-epidermis, often associated with rubbing, but also found in other locations.
Conclusions:
- This study presents the largest series of pagetoid dyskeratosis (PD) analyzed to date.
- PD is a notable finding in benign skin lesions, particularly melanocytic nevi.
- Further understanding of PD contributes to improved dermatopathological interpretation.
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