Acanthosis
Pronunciation: ak-an-THOH-sis
A histopathological finding denoting thickening of the prickle-cell (spinous) layer of the epithelium, commonly reported in oral mucosal biopsies.
Full Definition
Acanthosis refers specifically to an increase in the thickness of the stratum spinosum (prickle-cell layer) of stratified squamous epithelium. In oral pathology reports, it is frequently noted alongside other epithelial changes such as hyperparakeratosis, hyperorthokeratosis, or dysplasia. Acanthosis is a reactive change seen in conditions such as frictional keratosis, chronic irritation, and psoriasiform lesions, and is not in itself indicative of malignancy. Editors reviewing histopathology reports must distinguish 'acanthosis' from 'acanthosis nigricans' (a separate dermatological condition associated with insulin resistance) and from 'acantholysis' (the loss of cell-to-cell adhesion seen in pemphigus vulgaris).
Usage
Usage note: Do not confuse 'acanthosis' with 'acantholysis': the former is thickening; the latter is dissolution of intercellular bridges. Flag the distinction in histopathology reports.
In Context
- "The biopsy report described acanthosis and hyperparakeratosis with no features of dysplasia." — Oral pathology report
- "The editor queried whether 'acanthosis' or 'acantholysis' was intended, as both had been used in different parts of the same manuscript." — Manuscript query