MyPathologyReport
December 13, 2023
Koilocytes are abnormal squamous cells that have been infected by human papillomavirus (HPV). They are commonly seen in conditions caused by HPV including low grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) and high grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL). Koilocytes are often observed in tissues, such as the cervix, vagina, penis, anus, and oral cavity, where HPV infections can occur.
When examined under the microscope koilocytes are larger than normal squamous cells and the nucleus of the cell (the part that holds the genetic material) is often darker and more convoluted. The nucleus may also be surrounded by a white space called a halo. The presence of koilocytes is strongly suggestive of HPV infection, and their identification is important in the diagnosis of HPV-related lesions.
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Low grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL)
High grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL)
Human papillomavirus (HPV)
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