The characteristic histopathological feature of psoriasis that indicates rapid epidermal turnover and premature keratinocyte maturation is:

• A Pautrier microabscesses — collections of atypical lymphocytes in the epidermis
• B Civatte bodies — dyskeratotic cells at the DEJ
• C Munro microabscesses — aggregates of neutrophils in the stratum corneum ✓
• D Spongiform pustules of Kogoj — neutrophils within the stratum spinosum

Explanation

Munro microabscesses (neutrophils in the parakeratotic stratum corneum) and spongiform pustules of Kogoj (neutrophils within the spinous layer — seen in pustular psoriasis) are both psoriasis-associated findings. Munro microabscesses reflect neutrophil chemotaxis driven by IL-8 (CXCL8) and IL-17 from keratinocytes. Pautrier microabscesses are seen in mycosis fungoides. Civatte bodies (colloid/hyaline bodies) are apoptotic keratinocytes at the DEJ in lichen planus.

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

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