A papilloma is a common type of benign (non-cancerous) tumour that arises from epithelial cells on the outside or inside surface of an organ or tissue. Most papillomas are described as exophytic because they grow outwardly from the surface of the tissue. In contrast, endophytic or inverted papillomas grow down from the surface into the …
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In pathology, the word amorphous means “without a clear shape or structure.” When a pathologist uses this term in a report, it describes material seen under the microscope that appears shapeless, featureless, or disorganized — lacking the defined outlines and patterns of normal cells or tissue. Amorphous material is not a diagnosis on its own, …
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A collection of eosinophils inside tissue is called an eosinophilic abscess. Eosinophilic abscesses are often seen in areas of infection, especially infections caused by fungi or parasites. If the collection is large enough, it can form a sticky substance called pus. An eosinophilic microabscess is a small group of eosinophils inside tissue. Microabscesses can only …
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Neuroendocrine differentiation is a term pathologists use to describe cells that exhibit features of both nerve cells and hormone-producing cells. These cells are capable of producing, storing, and releasing hormones, much like cells in the nervous and endocrine systems. Neuroendocrine differentiation can be seen in both normal tissues and tumours. When seen in a tumour, …
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Macrophages are a type of white blood cell that plays a vital role in protecting the body from infection and in keeping tissues healthy. Their name comes from Greek words meaning “big eaters,” because they can surround, swallow, and digest harmful substances such as bacteria, viruses, and dead cells — a process called phagocytosis. Macrophages …
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The term “peripheral nerve sheath tumour” (PNST) refers to a group of tumours that arise from the nerve sheath, which is the protective covering of the peripheral nerves. These nerves are the ones that extend outside the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) to the rest of the body. The nerve sheath is made …
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An aneurysmal bone cyst is a benign (non-cancerous) tumour of bone composed of multiple blood-filled spaces separated by thin walls of tissue. Despite the name, it is not related to blood vessel aneurysms. The expanding cystic spaces can weaken bone and cause pain or swelling. This article explains the pathology report for aneurysmal bone cyst, …
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Grade 3 chondrosarcoma, also known as high-grade chondrosarcoma, is a type of cancer made up of cartilage that develops within the medulla (central space) of a bone. It is one of the most common types of primary bone cancer in adults. Why is the grade important? Chondrosarcomas are graded based on their appearance under the …
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Grade 2 chondrosarcoma, also known as intermediate grade chondrosarcoma, is a type of cancer made up of cartilage that develops within the medulla (central space) of a bone. It is one of the most common types of primary bone cancer in adults. Why is the grade important? Chondrosarcomas are graded based on their appearance under …
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Grade 1 chondrosarcoma, also known as low-grade chondrosarcoma, is a type of cancer made up of cartilage that develops within the medulla (central space) of a bone. It is one of the most common types of primary bone cancer in adults. Why is the grade important? Chondrosarcomas are graded based on their appearance under the …
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