What is blistering or epidermal separation caused by lateral pressure of the laser called?

Blistering or epidermal separation caused by lateral pressure of the laser is referred to as the Nikoliski sign. This phenomenon is significant in dermatology as it indicates the presence of certain skin conditions where the epidermis can be separated from the dermis with minimal pressure, demonstrating the fragility of the skin layers.

The Nikoliski sign is often observed in situations where the integrity of the epidermis is compromised, such as in diseases like pemphigus, where the autoantibodies attack the connections between skin cells. Understanding this sign is crucial for practitioners as it helps in diagnosing and managing various dermatological conditions.

The other terms mentioned do not specifically relate to the effects of lateral pressure from a laser on the skin, thus making the Nikoliski sign the relevant answer for this context.