Subcorneal Pustule
Pronunciation: sub-KOR-nee-ul PUS-tyool
A superficial pustule located immediately beneath the stratum corneum, characteristic of certain neutrophilic and pustular dermatoses.
Full Definition
A subcorneal pustule is a histological and clinical lesion in which a collection of neutrophils forms in the uppermost portion of the epidermis, directly beneath the stratum corneum. This finding is the defining microscopic feature of Sneddon–Wilkinson disease (subcorneal pustular dermatosis) and also seen in IgA pemphigus and pustular psoriasis. Editors reviewing dermatopathology or case report manuscripts should note that 'subcorneal' is written as one unhyphenated word in most current style guides, though hyphenated forms appear in older literature. The distinction between a subcorneal pustule and a spongiform pustule (of Kogoj), which occurs deeper in the epidermis, is clinically and diagnostically significant and must not be glossed over in editing.
Usage
Usage note: Write as one unhyphenated word: 'subcorneal.' Distinguish subcorneal pustules (beneath stratum corneum) from spongiform pustules of Kogoj (within the spinous layer), which are associated with pustular psoriasis.
In Context
- "Histopathological examination revealed subcorneal pustules filled with neutrophils and acantholytic cells, supporting a diagnosis of IgA pemphigus." — Dermatopathology biopsy report
- "The term 'subcorneal' should appear as one word; hyphenated usage from the earlier draft has been standardised throughout." — Copy-editing amendment note