Diagnostic Pitfalls in Dermatopathology

Dermatopathology is a distinct part of pathology revealing the rich association with soft tissue pathology and hematopathology. Regarding the number and diversity of the skin disorders, dermatopathology is a broad specialty encompassing hundreds of diseases. The diagnostics in dermatopathology contains a range of specific features. The article summarizes several practically important pitfalls in dermatopathology. The adequate timing and locality selection for proper sampling are emphasized. The influence of the topical therapy on the histopathological picture is debated. The frequently used surgical procedures in the skin biopsy are presented. The most frequent incidental findings and artifacts in cutaneous pathology are discussed. Problematics of the alopecia examination and direct immunofluorescence are added. Clinical-pathological correlation performed by the pathologist, and subsequently by the dermatologist, is the essential step in the diagnostic process. The knowledge transcending to the other specialty and reciprocal communication are prerequisite for the right diagnosis.