Fibroblasts are a type of cell normally found in connective tissue. They play an important role in maintaining the structural framework of tissues and organs in the body. They are one the most common types of cells found in connective tissue and are primarily involved in producing and secreting the extracellular matrix, which provides structural …
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Apocrine metaplasia describes a change where the cells normally found in a tissue are replaced by cells that resemble the apocrine cells found in the skin. It constitutes a benign (non-cancerous) change. In pathology, metaplasia is the replacement of one type of differentiated cell with another. Apocrine cells, characterized by their large size, round shape, …
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Glandular cells are specialized epithelial cells that form the functional units of most internal organs. They are involved in the production and secretion of substances that aid in the normal activity of the organ. These substances may include enzymes, hormones, mucus, or other products that are released into ducts, surfaces, or the bloodstream for various …
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Endosalpingiosis is a condition where tissue similar to that normally found in the fallopian tube is found outside of the fallopian tube. This tissue may be found in various pelvic organs and structures, such as the ovaries, peritoneum (lining of the abdominal cavity), and other pelvic tissues. It can also be found in small immune …
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Metastatic carcinoma refers to cancer that has spread from its original (primary) site to other parts of the body. The term carcinoma specifically refers to a type of cancer that begins in the epithelial cells, which are the cells that line the organs and tissues of the body. For example, if someone has metastatic carcinoma …
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A fibrovascular core is a microscopic structure made up of fibrous tissue and blood vessels found inside finger-like projections called papillae. These finger-like projections are commonly found in variety of benign (noncancerous) and malignant (cancerous) tumours. The fibrovascular core helps provide structure and nourishment to the cells on the outside surface of the papillae. About …
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Psammoma bodies are microscopic, rounded structures commonly found in some types of tumours. These bodies are characterized by concentric layers of calcium and proteins, giving them a lamellated or onion-like appearance under a microscope. The term “psammoma” is derived from the Greek words “psammos,” meaning sand, and “oma,” meaning tumour. Psammoma bodies are commonly associated …
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A vascular lesion is a growth made up predominantly of endothelial cells forming abnormal blood vessels. The term vascular lesion can be applied to a wide group of conditions including benign (noncancerous) tumours, intermediate (locally aggressive) tumours, malignant (cancerous) tumours, congenital/development abnormalities, and reactive conditions. Vascular lesions can occur in any part of the body …
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What is Melan-A? Melan-A (also known as MART-1) is a protein primarily expressed in cells called melanocytes. These pigment-producing cells give color to the skin, hair, and eyes. Melan-A is often used as a marker to identify and diagnose melanoma, a type of cancer that arises from melanocytes. What is Melan-A used for in pathology? …
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What is a well differentiated neuroendocrine tumour? A well differentiated neuroendocrine tumour (NET) is a type of cancer made up of specialized neuroendocrine cells. The tumour is described as “well differentiated” because the cells in the tumour look very similar to normal, healthy neuroendocrine cells. These tumours can be found almost anywhere in the body. …
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