Tzanck cells

(tsahnk),

acantholytic epithelial cells seen in the Tzanck test.

Tzanck,

Arnault, Russian dermatologist, 1886-1954.

Tzanck cells - acantholytic epithelial cells seen in the Tzanck test.

Tzanck test - the examination of fluid from a bullous lesion for Tzanck cells.

References in periodicals archive ?

This results in acantholysis with the formation of suprabasal intraepithelial blisters with free-floating epithelial cells within the blister (Tzanck cells).

Adverse Immunologically Mediated Oral Mucosal Reactions to Systemic Medication: Lichenoid Tissue Reaction/Interface Dermatitis-Stomatitis, Autoimmune Vesiculobullous Disease, and IgE-Dependent and Immune Complex Reactions

Diagnosis depends on biopsy confirmation of intraepithelial vesicle formation, acantholysis and the presence of tzanck cells. Demonstration of immunoglobulins especially IgG and complement in the intercellular space by direct immunofluorescence is a very reliable test.