Morphometry analysis of psoriasis and psoriasiform dermatitis: A retrospective study of 50 cases

Abstract

Background: Clinical and histomorphological features of psoriasis and its close mimickers have many overlapping features. The diagnostic differentiation of psoriasis from other psoriasiform eruptions enables treatment as per the extent of eruptions and modified according to the tissues involved and associated co morbidities. Morphometric analysis of histopathological features may help to alleviate this dilemma. Aim: This study attempts to evaluate the morphometric measurements using eye-piece micrometer in differentiating psoriasis from psoriaform dermatitis. Materials and Methods: The 50 cases, 25 each of clinically and histologically confirmed cases of psoriasis and psoriasiform dermatitis were compared by using measurable morphometric parameters. The results were statistically analyzed for significance. Results: Length of rete pegs, length of dermal papillae and the ratio of length/average width of rete pegs showed statistically significant increase in psoriasis when compared to psoriaform dermatitis. Suprapapillary thickness had less significance. Some other important histomorphological parameters were also compared. Conclusion: The length of rete pegs, the length of dermal papillae and the ratio of length/average width of rete pegs are statistically more significant in the diagnosis of psoriasis when compared to psoriasiform dermatitis.