Pagetoid

Pagetoid is a term used in dermatology and pathology to describe a certain pattern of cell spread. It is often associated with diseases such as Paget's disease and melanoma.

Definition

The term 'pagetoid' is derived from Paget's disease, a rare type of cancer that can occur in various parts of the body. It is characterized by the abnormal spread of cells, which is similar to the pattern seen in Paget's disease. In a pagetoid pattern, cells spread horizontally along the epidermis or mucous membrane, rather than growing downwards into the tissue.

Association with Diseases

Pagetoid spread is often seen in certain types of skin cancer, including melanoma and Merkel cell carcinoma. It is also seen in extramammary Paget's disease, a rare skin condition that is often associated with underlying adenocarcinoma.

Melanoma

In melanoma, pagetoid spread is characterized by the upward migration of atypical melanocytes into the epidermis. This is a key feature of the disease and can aid in its diagnosis.

Extramammary Paget's Disease

In extramammary Paget's disease, pagetoid spread is seen with Paget cells (large cells with abundant pale cytoplasm and large nuclei) spreading within the epidermis.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of a disease with pagetoid spread often involves a biopsy of the affected tissue. The tissue is then examined under a microscope to look for the characteristic pattern of cell spread.

Treatment

The treatment for diseases with pagetoid spread depends on the specific disease. It often involves surgery to remove the affected tissue, and may also include radiation therapy or chemotherapy.

See Also

• Paget's disease
• Melanoma
• Extramamammary Paget's disease
• Merkel cell carcinoma

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