Disorders of pigmentation — Flashcards

Flashcard 1: Which subtype of melanoma arises on the palms or soles? (Bonus: How does its etiology differ from other subtypes?)

Answer: Acral lentiginous melanoma (Not associated with UV light exposure)

Flashcard 2: Which blistering skin disorder is characterized by a "fish net" (reticular) pattern on immunofluorescence? _____

Answer: Pemphigus vulgaris

Flashcard 3: Albinism is associated with increased risk of skin _____

Answer: cancer

Flashcard 4: _____ is a benign neoplasm of melanocytes

Answer: Nevus (mole)

Flashcard 5: _____ are caused by the clonal proliferation of benign melanocytes in utero

Answer: Congenital (melanocytic) nevi

Flashcard 6: _____ is an immunohistochemical stain that stains cells of neural crest origin

Answer: S100

Flashcard 7: Which blistering skin disorder is characterized by acantholysis? _____

Answer: Pemphigus vulgaris

Flashcard 8: What is the underlying defect in albinism?

Answer: Deficiency of tyrosinase enzyme or tyrosine transporters (usually AR)

Extra: Clinical findings: Normal melanocyte count, but decreased melanin production. Very pale or white skin, increased risk for skin cancer (especially SCC). Inheritance is usually Autosomal Recessive.