Pathology · single question
A positive Nikolsky sign (sloughing of epithelium with lateral pressure) is characteristic of which condition?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Pemphigus vulgaris
- A. Correct. Pemphigus vulgaris is an intraepithelial (suprabasilar) acantholytic disease; lateral pressure causes the epithelium to slough — a positive Nikolsky sign.
- B. Lichen planus shows Wickham striae and a band-like infiltrate, typically Nikolsky-negative.
- C. Geographic tongue is benign migratory glossitis with no Nikolsky sign.
- D. Aphthous ulcers are focal ulcers without the diffuse epithelial sloughing of Nikolsky.