Civatte body

Civatte body

Civatte bodies are distinctive histopathological features that are often observed in a variety of skin conditions, most notably in lichen planus. Named after the French dermatologist Achille Civatte, who first described them in the early 20th century, Civatte bodies are essentially apoptotic keratinocytes, which are cells in the epidermis that have undergone programmed cell death.

Characteristics

Civatte bodies are characterized by their eosinophilic (acid-loving), rounded appearance under the microscope. They are found in the epidermis, particularly in the stratum spinosum and stratum basale layers. These bodies are a hallmark of interface dermatitis, where there is inflammation at the dermoepidermal junction. In addition to lichen planus, Civatte bodies can also be seen in other dermatological conditions such as discoid lupus erythematosus, lichenoid drug eruption, and graft-versus-host disease.

Pathogenesis

The exact mechanism leading to the formation of Civatte bodies is not fully understood. However, it is believed to involve a cell-mediated immune response that targets basal keratinocytes, leading to their apoptosis. This process is thought to be mediated by cytotoxic T cells and various cytokines. The presence of Civatte bodies is indicative of an ongoing immune-mediated attack on the skin's epithelial cells.

Clinical Significance

The identification of Civatte bodies is significant in the histopathological diagnosis of skin diseases. Their presence supports the diagnosis of lichen planus and other similar conditions characterized by interface dermatitis. However, it is important to note that while Civatte bodies are suggestive of certain diseases, they are not pathognomonic for any single condition. Therefore, their identification must be considered alongside clinical findings and other histological features.

Treatment and Prognosis

The treatment of conditions associated with Civatte bodies focuses on managing the underlying disease. For example, in the case of lichen planus, treatment options may include topical corticosteroids, systemic corticosteroids, or immunosuppressive agents, depending on the severity and extent of the disease. The prognosis varies depending on the underlying condition but is generally favorable with appropriate management.