Spongiosis

Histologically, spongiosis refers to the presence of intercellular edema—fluid accumulation between keratinocytes—in the epidermis. This creates widened spaces between the cells, giving the tissue a sponge-like appearance under the microscope.dermnetnz+2

Classic Histological Features of Spongiosis

Widened intercellular spaces: Edema separates the epidermal keratinocytes, most noticeably in the stratum spinosum, producing a reticular or “spongy” texture.sciencedirect+2
Stretched, visible desmosomes: The connections (desmosomes) between adjacent keratinocytes remain intact and appear as thin “bridges” or strands crossing the enlarged spaces, reinforcing the sponge analogy.spandidos-publications+1
Variable degree of spongiosis:
- In acute cases, significant edema may lead to formation of small intraepidermal vesicles (microvesiculation).
- In subacute/chronic stages, there is less edema, and epidermal thickening (acanthosis), hyperkeratosis (thickened stratum corneum), and parakeratosis may be more prominent.dermnetnz+1
Accompanying changes: Inflammatory cells (lymphocytes, sometimes neutrophils or eosinophils) may migrate into the epidermis (exocytosis), especially in eczematous dermatitis. The underlying dermis may show edema and a perivascular lymphohistiocytic infiltrate.pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih

Summary

In summary, spongiosis in histological sections is recognized by intercellular edema between keratinocytes, maintained by elongated desmosomes, sometimes resulting in vesicle formation, and is a hallmark of acute eczematous processes.dermnetnz+3

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Spongiosis

Classic Histological Features of Spongiosis

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