epitheliopathy

Epitheliopathy is a medical term describing disease or pathology of the epithelium, the cellular layer that covers and protects surfaces such as the skin, mucous membranes, and the ocular surface. The term emphasizes epithelial involvement and may indicate disruption of the epithelial barrier, abnormal cell structure, or dysfunction of epithelial renewal, without necessarily implying deeper tissue disease. Epithelial tissues can be affected by various etiologies, including inflammation, infection, trauma, chemical injury, ischemia, and genetic or autoimmune disorders.

Common manifestations depend on the anatomical site. In the skin, epitheliopathy may present as erosions, fissures, or hyperkeratosis with compromised barrier function. In the eye, epitheliopathy often refers to damage of the corneal or conjunctival epithelium, detectable as staining defects with fluorescein or lissamine green, surface irregularity, dry eye–associated staining, or recurrent epithelial erosions. In other mucosal surfaces, epitheliopathy can cause dryness, ulceration, or painful lesions.

Etiologies are diverse: dryness and environmental stress; mechanical or chemical irritation; infectious agents; inflammatory or autoimmune conditions; medication toxicity; and genetic disorders affecting epithelial integrity. Diagnosis typically relies on clinical examination, aided by targeted tests such as dye staining, biopsy when indicated, and assessment of associated systemic or local conditions.

Management focuses on addressing the underlying cause and supporting epithelial healing. This can include lubrication or barrier protection, removal of irritants, treatment of infections, anti-inflammatory or immunomodulatory therapies when appropriate, and, in some cases, surgical or procedural interventions. Prognosis varies with cause and location and may be chronic in recurrent or inherited conditions.