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Apoptosis. Its nature and implications for dermatopathology.
The American Journal of Dermatopathology
|January 1, 1979
Summary
Apoptosis, a programmed cell death, balances tissue size and avoids inflammation. This process, crucial in development and disease, has distinct cellular features and is now recognized in various skin conditions.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Pathology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Apoptosis is a regulated form of cell death essential for tissue homeostasis.
- It contrasts with necrosis, characterized by active self-destruction and distinct morphological features.
- Apoptosis plays roles in development, immune responses, and cancer regression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the fundamental characteristics of apoptosis.
- To highlight its significance in dermatopathology.
- To recognize apoptotic bodies previously misidentified.
Main Methods:
- Morphological analysis of cell death.
- Electron microscopy for ultrastructural details.
- Review of diverse physiological and pathological processes involving apoptosis.
Main Results:
- Apoptosis involves cell shrinkage, budding into membrane-bound fragments (apoptotic bodies), and phagocytosis without inflammation.
- It is implicated in embryonic development, hormone-dependent tissue involution, immune attack, and tumor regression.
- Apoptosis is a key feature in lichen planus, drug reactions, graft-versus-host disease, warts, UV damage, and cutaneous neoplasms.
Conclusions:
- Apoptosis is a fundamental biological process with critical roles across various tissues and conditions.
- Its recognition in dermatopathology clarifies the nature of several skin lesions.
- Understanding apoptosis aids in diagnosing and potentially treating skin diseases.