Evolution of a pragmatic algorithm based approach for sub-categorization of Interface dermatitis- A Clinico-Pathological study

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Original Article

Author Details : Vardendra Kulkarni, Seema Bijjaragi, Prashanth R, Prakash Kumar

Volume : 3, Issue : 1, Year : 2016

Article Page : 60-69

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Abstract

Background: Interface dermatitis is a morphological pattern of inflammatory dermatoses characterized by significant histological alterations involving the dermo-epidermal junction. Based on the degree of inflammation and degenerations of the basal layer, it is broadly categorized into vacuolar and lichenoid sub-types. The dermal changes may be confined to the superficial layers only or may involve the deeper dermis as well. Diagnostic entities having diverse etiologies and prognostic significance may present with this morphological pattern warranting a proper diagnosis for effective management.
Aims: 1. To study histomorphology of inflammatory dermatoses presenting with interface pattern
            2. To evolve algorithms for further categorization of interface dermatitis
Methods: A prospective study was carried out at a tertiary care hospital for a period of three years. All skin biopsies showing interface dermatitis were evaluated giving due importance to additional changes in epidermis and dermis.
Results: A total of seventy four cases of inflammatory dermatoses presenting with interface pattern were encountered. Majority of the cases were seen in adults in the age group of 30 to 60 years, with slight female preponderance (53.4%). Lichen planus and its variants accounted for the bulk (68.9%) of the cases. All the cases were further stratified based on epidermal changes. Diagnostic algorithms were developed taking into account the epidermal and dermal changes for initial approach to all cases.
Conclusion: A thorough evaluation of epidermal alterations and strong correlation with clinical findings aid in contemplating proper diagnosis for cases presenting with interface pattern of dermatitis.

Keywords: Interface; Lichenoid eruptions; Histopathology; Algorithms.

How to cite : Kulkarni V, Bijjaragi S, Prashanth R, Kumar P, Evolution of a pragmatic algorithm based approach for sub-categorization of Interface dermatitis- A Clinico-Pathological study. Indian J Pathol Oncol 2016;3(1):60-69

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