Scaling

Abstract

Desquamation (or scaling) is usually physiological and non-visible and corresponds to normal shedding of epidermal cell residues from the stratum corneum (nonviable cells). It sometimes becomes apparent with the formation of easily detachable scales, unlike keratosis which is firmly adherent. Scaling indicates an epidermal involvement in the pathological process. It can be present either initially or immediately after the onset of a disorder, thus being one of the primary lesions characterizing the disorder. Examples are the scaly erythematous plaques occurring in psoriasis or the scaling which always quickly accompanies erythroderma. It can also occur secondarily, such as with most drug-induced and viral exanthems. Scaly erythematous lesions are particularly common.