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 »
In pathology, a duct refers to a tube-like structure in the body that transports fluids from one area to another. Ducts are important parts of various organ systems, allowing for the movement of substances such as bile, urine, sweat, and breast milk. Types of cells in a duct Ducts are lined with epithelial cells, which …
Read More »
A cyst is an abnormal, fluid-filled or air-filled space in the body, surrounded by a thin wall of tissue. The inside of a cyst can be empty (containing air), or it might be filled with fluid, blood, pus (dead immune cells), or other types of material. Cysts can develop anywhere in the body and can …
Read More »
Cytokeratin 20 (CK20) is a protein made by epithelial cells in the colon and urinary tract. It is also made by Merkle cells in the skin. This type of protein is also made by most benign (noncancerous) and malignant (cancerous) tumours that start in the colon and urinary tract and in a type of skin …
Read More »
Cytokeratin 7 (CK7) is a protein made by epithelial cells in the thyroid gland, lungs, thymus, female reproductive organs, upper digestive tract, and head and neck. This type of protein is also made by most benign (noncancerous) and malignant (cancerous) tumours that start in these organ systems. After CK7 is made, it is held in …
Read More »
Cytokeratins are a group of proteins called intermediate filaments that are normally found inside specialized epithelial cells that make up the lining of many internal and external surfaces of the body, such as the skin, organs, and glands. These proteins provide structural support and protect against mechanical stress, as well as help maintain their shape and …
Read More »
Desmin is a protein found inside cells that form muscle tissue. It helps provide structure and support within muscle cells, allowing them to contract and function properly. Desmin is part of a group of proteins called intermediate filaments, which form a supportive framework in the cell. It is especially important in smooth, skeletal, and cardiac …
Read More »
Chromatin in pathology refers to the appearance of the DNA-protein complex within the nucleus of a cell. This complex can provide valuable insights into the cell’s health, function, and potential abnormalities. How chromatin is organized and presented can indicate various disease states, including cancer. Terms used to describe chromatin When examining cells under the microscope, …
Read More »
Chronic inflammation is the body’s long-term or delayed defense to injury or disease. Cells from the body’s immune system take part in this response. These cells include lymphocytes, plasma cells, eosinophils, and histiocytes. What causes chronic inflammation? Chronic inflammation can be caused by various factors and often results from a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, …
Read More »
A cholesterol cleft is a small open space filled with cholesterol, a type of fat that can only be seen under a microscope. Where do cholesterol clefts come from? Our body is made up of trillions of cells. Each cell is like a tiny water-filled bag with an outer wall that surrounds the soft parts …
Read More »
