Dermatopathology
Pronunciation: der-mah-toe-path-OL-oh-jee
The subspecialty of pathology focused on the microscopic diagnosis of skin, hair, and nail diseases.
Full Definition
Dermatopathology is a subspecialty of pathology that involves the microscopic examination and interpretation of skin biopsies to diagnose cutaneous diseases. Dermatopathologists are specially trained to recognize the histologic patterns of inflammatory skin conditions, infections, genetic disorders, and neoplasms. This field requires correlation of clinical information with histopathologic findings, and often involves special stains, immunohistochemistry, or molecular techniques to establish definitive diagnoses. The dermatopathology report provides crucial information for treatment planning and prognosis in dermatologic surgery.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from general dermatology; refers specifically to the pathologic interpretation of tissue specimens.
In Context
- "The specimen was sent to dermatopathology for evaluation of the atypical melanocytic lesion." — Laboratory requisition
- "Dermatopathology confirmed the diagnosis of invasive squamous cell carcinoma with clear margins." — Pathology report