In pathology, the term pleomorphic is used to describe cells that appear very different from each other when viewed under a microscope. Pleomorphic cells vary significantly in size, shape, and colour. Although pathologists may describe the whole cell as pleomorphic, they usually focus on the appearance of the cell’s nucleus (the part containing genetic material …
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p53 is a protein made by a gene called TP53, which plays a critical role in protecting the body from cancer. Because of this, p53 is known as a tumor suppressor. The TP53 gene is located on chromosome 17 and provides instructions for making the p53 protein, which works like a quality control inspector inside …
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In pathology, the term papillary is used to describe finger-like projections of tissue with cells lining the outside surface of the tissue and a central fibrovascular core. Pathologists use the term micropapillary to describe similar but smaller projections of tissue. Papillary growth is most commonly seen in tumours including both benign (noncancerous) and malignant (cancerous) …
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p63 is a protein that acts as a transcription factor, meaning it helps control when certain genes are turned on or off in cells. It plays a vital role in the development and maintenance of epithelial tissues, which are the layers of cells that line and protect surfaces throughout the body, including the skin, airways, …
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The word “mass” in a pathology report refers to an area of tissue that is larger than normal. It is a broad term used to describe a lump or abnormal growth that can be seen or felt during a physical examination or detected using imaging tests like an X-ray or MRI. A mass can occur …
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Metaplasia describes a process in which one type of normal tissue in your body is replaced by a different kind of normal tissue not usually found in that location. This change typically occurs because the tissue responds to ongoing stress, irritation, or injury. Metaplasia can happen in many parts of the body, including the esophagus, …
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Intestinal metaplasia is a change that occurs when the cells that normally line an organ are replaced by cells that resemble those found in the intestine. The word metaplasia means that one type of normal cell has been replaced by another type of normal cell that is not usually found in that location. In intestinal …
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In pathology, the term “infiltration” refers to the spread of one type of cell or substance into an area of tissue where it is not normally found. This can happen with normal immune system cells that move into tissues during inflammation, or with abnormal cells, such as cancer cells, that grow into surrounding structures. Pathologists use …
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Immunoglobulins are special proteins made by plasma cells, a type of white blood cell that develops from B cells. Immunoglobulins are also called antibodies. Their primary role is to protect the body by recognizing and attaching to harmful substances such as bacteria, viruses, and toxins. Once an immunoglobulin attaches to a target, it marks it …
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In pathology, the term “gross” refers to observations made by examining tissues or organs with the naked eye, without the use of a microscope or any magnification tools. Gross examination involves assessing the general appearance and physical features of a tissue sample or organ, including its size, shape, color, texture, and the presence of any …
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