S2C14aP8a-1: In this spongioform pustular zone, keratinocytes in close proximity to neutrophils show partial lysis of cytoplasm and cell walls. In the area outlined by white arrows, several dendritic histiocytes and a lymphocyte are clustered together in a lacuna. In view of the relationships, we should ask: Do the dendritic histiocytes and the lymphocytes have a role in attracting neutrophils into the epidermis? In response: Migratory histiocytes are a feature of the epidermis in lesions of psoriasis, but generally are not associated with lymphocytes in an intimate relationship; lymphocytes are rare in the epidermis in uncomplicated lesions of psoriasis. Perhaps, permeability along the surface of a faulty (parakeratotic) layer results in a faulty environment to which neutrophils are attracted. Perhaps, in lesions of psoriasis, epidermal dendritic cells attract neutrophils rather than lymphocytes.

The cluster of aids below provide access to photographs and to respective parent chapters.

S2C14aP8a-2: In this field, the precursor of a Munro microabscess is represented; it is a lesion in evolution. At this stage, it is a small spongioform pustule. In time, the conglomerate of cells (i.e., keratinocytes in their natural upward migration and neutrophils as passengers) will move to the keratin layer, die, and dry-up; the alteration which, at this stage, is a spongioform pustular lesion will, in time, become a Munro microabscess. 

To next page at same level

Up a page (if at tier 3, up to respective parent page)

Back a page, at the same level (a spatial relationship)

Mauve navigation aids to right provide access to the SECTIONS; green to two web sites