TZANCK CELLS

TZANCK CELLS

- “Tzanck cells” are diagnostic feature of herpes zoster and pemphigus.

-  In cases of herpes zoster, multinucleated giant cells known as “Tzanck cells” are characteristic feature of cytologic smear examination.

-  In case of pemphigus as a result of acantholysis, clumps of epithelial cells are found lying free within the vesicular space, these cells are called “Tzanck cells”.

-  “Tzanck cells” have large nuclei and condensation of chromatin along cell wall.