Musculoskeletal and Skin: Osteoporosis, Psoriasis · USMLE Step 1

A biopsy of a psoriatic plaque shows parakeratosis. What does this indicate?

  1. Nuclei retained in stratum corneum
  2. Edema of the dermis
  3. Loss of the granular cell layer
  4. Vacuolization of basal keratinocytes
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: Nuclei retained in stratum corneum

Parakeratosis refers to retention of nuclei in the stratum corneum and reflects accelerated keratinocyte turnover. It is a hallmark of psoriasis.

Difficulty: Medium Question 18 of 20

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