Common histopathology terms - Acantholysis
Acantholysis is the loss of attachment between epithelial cells.
During acantholysis, there is a breakdown of the intercellular connections between epithelial cells, called desmosomes.
This results in epithelial cells losing their cohesion, forming intra-epithelial clefts and blisters (also known as an intra-epithelial split).
The free floating spinous cells within the split lose their polygonal shape and become spherical/round. These are called Tzanck cells.
Examples of lesions exhibiting acantholysis👇
pemphigus vulgaris
erythema multiforme
herpes simplex vesicles
