Lymphovascular invasion (LVI) means cancer cells have entered the tiny channels called lymphatic vessels or blood vessels within your body. These vessels normally carry fluid (lymph) or blood throughout your body. Once cancer cells enter these vessels, they may move away from the original tumor and reach lymph nodes or other body areas. Does lymphovascular …
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Lymphoma is a type of cancer that starts from immune cells called lymphocytes. These cells normally protect your body from infections and disease. In lymphoma, lymphocytes become abnormal and grow uncontrollably, forming tumors that often involve lymph nodes but can also affect the spleen, bone marrow, and other organs throughout the body. What are the …
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The word lesion is a general medical term used to describe any area of tissue that looks different from normal. A lesion can be caused by many things, including injury, infection, inflammation, or abnormal growth. The term “lesion” does not explain what is causing the abnormality or whether it is harmful. It simply means that …
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In pathology, invasion refers to the spread of cancer cells from their original location into surrounding healthy tissues. Identifying invasion is important because it allows pathologists to distinguish between malignant (cancerous) and benign (noncancerous) tumors. Malignant tumors are characterized by invasion into nearby tissues, whereas benign tumors typically remain contained within clear and well-defined borders. …
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Leukocytes, also called white blood cells, are an important part of your body’s immune system. They are tiny cells that help protect you from infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and other harmful germs. Leukocytes also help fight diseases and heal injuries by responding to areas of damage in the body. Where are leukocytes normally found? …
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Intracellular bridges are tiny connections that link one cell to another. They are found in squamous cells, which are flat cells that make up the surface of the skin, the lining of the mouth, throat, and esophagus, and the outer layer of the cervix. These bridges allow squamous cells to stay firmly attached to each …
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In pathology, the term “in toto” means that an entire tissue specimen is submitted for microscopic examination without being divided into smaller parts. This approach ensures that the pathologist can evaluate the entire specimen comprehensively. Types of tissues submitted in toto Certain types of tissues or specimens are typically submitted in toto for a thorough …
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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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Inflammation is the body’s natural defense response to injury, infection, or irritation. When tissue is damaged or threatened, the immune system sends specialized cells and chemical signals to the affected area to fight off the cause of the injury and begin the healing process. Inflammation is a normal and necessary process — without it, wounds …
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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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