Nikolsky Sign
Pronunciation: nih-KOL-skee
A clinical examination finding in which gentle lateral pressure on apparently normal skin produces shearing and blister formation, indicating intraepidermal adhesion failure.
Full Definition
The Nikolsky sign is elicited by applying lateral shearing pressure to clinically uninvolved perilesional skin; a positive result—blister extension or skin slippage—indicates a loss of intercellular cohesion within the epidermis, as seen in pemphigus vulgaris and staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS). It is named after the Russian dermatologist Pyotr Nikolsky. Editors must ensure 'Nikolsky' is correctly capitalised as a proper noun eponym and that the spelling is not confused with 'Nikolski' or 'Nickolsky'. The sign is distinct from the Asboe-Hansen sign (pressure on a bulla causing lateral spread), which may also appear in the same document.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalise 'Nikolsky' as an eponym. Do not confuse with Asboe-Hansen sign, which may be documented alongside it.
In Context
- "A positive Nikolsky sign was demonstrated in the perilesional skin, raising suspicion for pemphigus vulgaris." — Dermatology inpatient assessment
- "The Nikolsky sign was negative, making staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome less likely." — Pediatric case report