| Namespace | MPheno.ontology | Obsolete | false |
| description | any structural anomaly of the outermost layer of the bilaminar embryonic/fetal epidermis, the first non-basal layer formed at approximately E9.5; it is a temporary structure composed of simple squamous epithelium that serves as the first barrier to the embryo's physical environment, exists throughout the entire keratinocyte stratification process, and sheds off at approximately E17, when it is replaced by corneocytes; desquamated peridermal cells are a considerable component of the vernix caseosa, a white, cheesy, protective substance that covers the fetal skin |