In pathology, the term “exophytic” refers to a growth pattern of a tumor or lesion that projects outward from the surface of the tissue. This growth pattern contrasts with endophytic growths, which extend inward into the tissue beneath the surface. Exophytic growths can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and are characterized by their outward …
Read More »
In pathology, the term “differentiated” describes how specialized or mature the cells are within a tissue or organ. Differentiation is a natural process where cells develop unique structures and functions, allowing them to perform specific tasks in the body. Well-differentiated cells closely resemble normal, healthy cells, while less differentiated cells look more abnormal and lack …
Read More »
Desmoplasia is an abnormal reaction that occurs when cancer cells interact with the supportive tissue surrounding them, known as stroma. The stroma is a specialized type of connective tissue that provides structure and support for organs and tissues. In the presence of cancer cells, the stroma often responds by becoming thick, firm, and scar-like, creating …
Read More »
Cautery artifact is a term pathologists use to describe changes in the appearance of cells and tissue caused by heat during a surgical procedure. These changes are not related to disease — they are a side effect of a common surgical tool called electrocautery, which uses electrical heat to cut tissue and seal bleeding blood …
Read More »
CD34 is a protein found on the surface of specific cells in your body, mainly stem cells (cells that can develop into various other types of cells), endothelial cells (blood vessel cells), and specific blood-forming cells. It plays an important role in cell growth and development, especially in forming new blood vessels and blood cells. …
Read More »
Adipose tissue, commonly known as fat, is a type of body tissue made up of cells called adipocytes. These cells store energy, help cushion and protect internal organs, and provide insulation to maintain body temperature. Adipose tissue surrounds many organs throughout the body and is a normal part of the tissue layers examined in pathology …
Read More »
Adenocarcinoma is a type of cancer that starts in glandular cells — specialized cells that normally produce substances like mucus, hormones, or digestive juices. Glandular cells line the inside of many organs throughout the body, which is why adenocarcinoma is one of the most common types of cancer overall. When you see this word in …
Read More »
In pathology, the term tumour describes an abnormal growth of cells in the body. Normally, cells grow and divide in a controlled way. However, tumour cells multiply uncontrollably, forming a lump or mass. Tumours can develop anywhere in your body and can vary significantly in their appearance and behaviour. How are tumours categorized? Tumours are …
Read More »
A resection is a surgical procedure performed to remove an area of abnormal tissue such as a tumour from the body. A resection usually removes all of the abnormal tissue plus some surrounding normal tissue. The tissue removed is called a specimen and the cut edge of the tissue is called the margin. This type …
Read More »
