What are Pautrier microabscesses?

Pautrier microabscesses are characterized by neoplastic cell clusters within the epidermis, predominantly observed in conditions such as mycosis fungoides, a form of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. These microabscesses are significant because they represent abnormal proliferation of malignant lymphoid cells that can disrupt normal skin architecture. The presence of Pautrier microabscesses serves as a histopathological hallmark that aids in the diagnosis of specific skin neoplasms, particularly those associated with T-cell malignancies. Recognizing these structures is crucial in differentiating between various skin disorders and in understanding the underlying pathology.