acantholysis Definition
the separation of cells in the outermost layer of the skin (epidermis) from each other, caused by the breakdown of the substance that holds the cells together.
Using acantholysis: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "acantholysis" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Acantholysis is a characteristic feature of pemphigus vulgaris, a rare autoimmune disorder.
Example
The diagnosis of acantholysis requires a biopsy of the affected skin tissue.
Example
Acantholysis can also occur in other skin conditions such as Darier's disease and Hailey-Hailey disease.
Summary: acantholysis in Brief
'Acantholysis' [ak-an-thol-uh-sis] refers to the separation of cells in the outermost layer of the skin (epidermis) caused by the breakdown of the substance that holds the cells together. It is a characteristic feature of pemphigus vulgaris, a rare autoimmune disorder, and can also occur in other skin conditions such as Darier's disease and Hailey-Hailey disease. Diagnosis of acantholysis requires a biopsy of the affected skin tissue.
