Dept. of Dermatology - University of Iowa College of Medicine

M. S. Stone and T. L. Ray

Hydropic Degeneration of Basal Cells

Also called liquefaction degeneration, it is a type of degeneration causing vacuolization of the basal cells. This process may lead to pigment incontinence. It is seen in lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis, LS&A, ashy dermatosis and in early lichen planus.
Example of hydropic degeneration of basal cells in Lupus Erythematosus.

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September, 1995

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