Title: Histopathological Evaluation of Collagen Profiles in Spongiotic Dermatitis

Authors: Anjali Patankar, Ramya Gandhi*, Erli Amel Ivan

 DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v7i3.51

Abstract

Context: Spongiotic Dermatitis is a common clinical condition also known as eczema, characterized by rashes and itching further may progress to scarring. The terms eczema and dermatitis are often used interchangeably to denote a polymorphic inflammatory reaction pattern involving the epidermis and dermis. Spongiosis refers to intraepidermal edema.

Aim: To assess the orientation of collagen in eczematous spongiotic dermatitis.

Material and Methods: The present study was done in the Department of Pathology, Sri Manakula Vinayagar Medical College, Pondicherry. Sixty diagnosed cases of spongiotic dermatitis diagnosed over a period of five years were taken in the study. Orientation of collagen was evaluated using Masson’s trichrome stain.

Results: Spongiotic dermatitis occurred in all age groups but commonly seen in middle age to elderly. Male to female ratio was 1:1.2 The most common symptom was itching (85%) followed by scaling(63.3%). Most common site was upper extremities (80%). subacute cases were predominantly seen (38.3%) followed by chronic cases (33.3%). The most common orientation of collagen seen was vertical (38.3%) which was seen in (50%) of chronic cases.

Conclusion: The study emphasizes the need of using masson trichrome on skin biopsy showing spongiotic dermatitis to assess the collagen orientation and to know its chronicity.

Keywords: Spongiotic dermatitis, collagen, masson’s trichrome.

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Corresponding Author

Dr Ramya Gandhi

Associate Professor, Department of Pathology, Sri Manakula Vinayagar Medical College and Hospital, Kalitheerthalkuppam, Puducherry, 605 107, India

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