Dermatology · Papulosquamous Disorders (Psoriasis, Lichen Planus)

Histopathology of a skin biopsy from a patient with lichen planus shows a 'saw-tooth' pattern of the rete ridges, a band-like lymphocytic infiltrate at the dermoepidermal junction, and eosinophilic hyaline bodies in the basal layer. What are these hyaline bodies called?

  • A Civatte bodies (colloid bodies)
  • B Munro microabscesses
  • C Russell bodies
  • D Corps ronds
Correct answer: A. Civatte bodies (colloid bodies)

Explanation

Civatte bodies (also called colloid or hyaline bodies) are eosinophilic globules found in the basal layer and papillary dermis in lichen planus, representing apoptotic keratinocytes. The combination of saw-tooth rete ridges, band-like lichenoid lymphocytic infiltrate hugging the DEJ, and Civatte bodies is pathognomonic of lichen planus. Munro microabscesses are collections of neutrophils in the stratum corneum seen in psoriasis, and corps ronds are seen in Darier's disease.

Reference: Neena Khanna Illustrated Synopsis of Dermatology & STD, 6th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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