Prickle cell

Prickle cell is a term used in histology to describe a type of cell found in the epidermis of the skin. These cells, also known as spinous cells, are characterized by their spiny appearance, which is caused by the numerous desmosomal connections they form with neighboring cells.

Structure and Function

Prickle cells are polygonal in shape and are larger than the basal cells from which they originate. They are found in the stratum spinosum layer of the epidermis, which is located above the stratum basale and below the stratum granulosum.

The primary function of prickle cells is to provide strength and flexibility to the skin. They achieve this through the formation of desmosomes, which are specialized cell junctions that link adjacent cells together. These desmosomes are responsible for the spiny appearance of prickle cells when viewed under a microscope.

In addition to providing structural support, prickle cells also play a role in the immune response of the skin. They are capable of presenting antigens to T cells, which are a type of white blood cell involved in the immune response.

Clinical Significance

Abnormalities in prickle cells can lead to a variety of skin conditions. For example, a decrease in the number of desmosomes can result in a loss of cohesion between cells, leading to conditions such as pemphigus vulgaris, a rare autoimmune disease characterized by blistering of the skin and mucous membranes.

Conversely, an increase in the number of prickle cells can lead to the formation of skin tumors, such as squamous cell carcinoma. This is a type of skin cancer that originates from the prickle cells in the epidermis.

See Also

• Epidermis (skin)
• Desmosome
• Squamous cell carcinoma
• Pemphigus vulgaris