What does minimally invasive mean? Minimally invasive is a term pathologists use to describe cancer that has only spread a small distance into the non-cancerous surrounding tissue. For example, a type of cancer called squamous cell carcinoma in the mouth may be called minimally invasive if it has spread less than 0.5 cm into the …
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The transformation zone is a normal part of the cervix, the lower end of the uterus that opens into the vagina. Two different types of cells cover the cervix: Squamous cells, which cover the outer surface of the cervix (the ectocervix) Glandular cells, which line the cervical canal leading into the uterus (the endocervix) The …
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S100 is the name of a family of proteins found inside certain types of cells in the body. These proteins help cells respond to changes in their environment by regulating processes like growth, movement, and communication. The name “S100” comes from the fact that the proteins are soluble in a solution made with 100% saturated …
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An atypical lipomatous tumor (ALT) is a slow-growing, low-grade type of sarcoma — a cancer that arises from fat cells. ALT is closely related to well-differentiated liposarcoma; in fact, both names refer to the same underlying tumor. The term ALT is used when the tumor arises in a location where complete surgical removal is achievable, …
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DIF stands for direct immunofluorescence. It is a test that pathologists perform to look for specific proteins in a tissue sample. Unlike most tissue samples, which are examined using normal light, DIF tissue samples are examined using fluorescent light. This makes it easier for pathologists to see exactly where in the tissue sample the proteins …
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Direct immunofluorescence (DIF) is a specialized laboratory test pathologists use to identify specific proteins within a tissue sample. This test involves using antibodies attached to a fluorescent dye that glows brightly under a special microscope. By lighting up these proteins, DIF helps pathologists see their location and pattern within the tissue. Why is direct immunofluorescence …
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Myelolipoma is a benign (non-cancerous) tumor made up of two normal tissues mixed together: mature adipose tissue (fat) and bone marrow-type tissue that produces blood cells. The word myelolipoma comes from “myelo” (referring to bone marrow) and “lipoma” (a benign fat tumor). The combination of these two tissues within a single mass defines the diagnosis. …
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Background: Desmoid tumour or deep fibromatosis is a benign (non-cancerous) tumour that starts in connective tissue. It is considered locally aggressive because it can grow into surrounding tissues and organs. The tumour can also grow back if not completely removed. However, it will not metastasize (spread) to other body parts. Symptoms of desmoid tumour The …
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Verruca vulgaris, also known as a wart, is a very common non-cancerous skin growth caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). These growths are harmless in most people and often go away on their own, but they can be bothersome, spread to other parts of the skin, or persist for years. What parts of …
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NUT carcinoma is a rare, fast-growing cancer that can develop in different parts of the body, most often in the head and neck or the chest. It is named after a genetic change involving the NUTM1 gene, which normally helps control how cells grow and mature. NUT carcinoma tends to grow and spread quickly, which …
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