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Auspitz Sign

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Auspitz Sign
Auspitz Sign[1]
Histological hallmarks of psoriasis and the Auspitz sign[2]
  • Auspitz phenomenon
  • Psoriasis pinpoint bleeding sign
  • Pinpoint bleeding after scale removal
  • Psoriatic bleeding sign

Purpose

  • Identify a clinical feature suggestive of Psoriasis
  • Assist in differentiating papulosquamous disorders
  • Support bedside diagnosis when morphology is consistent

Description

  • Overlying silvery scale is gently removed from a plaque
  • Results in multiple pinpoint bleeding spots
  • Typically performed with light scraping (e.g., tongue depressor or glass slide)
  • Most commonly observed on extensor surface plaques

Pathology

Evidence

Psoriasis

  • Bernard et al[3]
    • Sensitivity: 17%
    • Specificity: Not reported

See Also

References

  1. ↑ Kangle, Satyajeet, Sangeeta Amladi, and S. Sawant. "Scaly signs in dermatology." (2006).
  2. ↑ Luengas‐Martinez, Andrea, et al. "Vascular endothelial growth factor‐A as a promising therapeutic target for the management of psoriasis." Experimental dermatology 29.8 (2020): 687-698.
  3. ↑ Bernhard, Jeffrey D. "Auspitz sign is not sensitive or specific for psoriasis." Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology 22.6 (1990): 1079-1081.
Created by:
John Kiel on 5 May 2026 12:13:26
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Last edited:
5 May 2026 13:24:03
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