What does scale refer to in dermatological terms?

In dermatological terms, scale refers to dry, excrescent material that forms on the skin through a process known as cornification. This condition occurs when the outer layer of skin, composed of dead skin cells, becomes thickened or flaked off due to various factors, such as skin disorders, dryness, or other underlying conditions. Scales can vary in color, size, and texture, and they are commonly associated with conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and seborrheic dermatitis. Understanding scale is important in pathology as it can provide clues about the underlying health of the skin and can aid in the diagnosis of specific dermatological diseases.