Graft-vs-Host Reaction

Abstract
• Observations surrounding the clinical manifestations and pathological studies of a neonate who died at 9 weeks of age, indicate that distinctive cutaneous, histopathologic, and ultrastructural findings occur when graft-vs-host reaction (GVHR) complicates combined immune deficiency syndrome (CIDS). The prominence and specificity of the epidermal lesions, particularly a necrotic cell that occurs in association with satellite lymphocytes ("satellite cell necrosis" (SCN)), lead us to recommend that a cutaneous biopsy be performed to facilitate an early definitive diagnosis. Dermatologists can recognize GVHR at the bedside and establish the diagnosis with the pathological findings obtained from the skin biopsy. (Arch Dermatol 113:806-812, 1977)