Nikolsky's sign

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Nikolsky's sign (pronunciation: ni-KOL-skee's sign) is a clinical dermatological sign, named after the Russian dermatologist Pyotr Vasilyevich Nikolsky.

Etymology

The term is named after Pyotr Vasilyevich Nikolsky, a Russian dermatologist who first described the sign in 1896.

Definition

Nikolsky's sign refers to the ability to elicit blistering of the skin by applying gentle lateral pressure. It is a clinical sign indicative of certain skin conditions, most notably Pemphigus Vulgaris and Stevens-Johnson Syndrome.

Clinical Significance

A positive Nikolsky's sign is typically associated with diseases that cause a weakening of the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. This includes conditions such as Pemphigus Vulgaris, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN). The sign is used as a diagnostic tool to help identify these conditions.

Related Terms

  • Pemphigus Vulgaris: An autoimmune blistering disease that causes blisters on the skin and mucous membranes.
  • Stevens-Johnson Syndrome: A rare, serious disorder of the skin and mucous membranes, usually a reaction to a medication or an infection.
  • Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis: A potentially life-threatening dermatological condition that is usually caused by a reaction to drugs.

See Also

External links

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