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 and aggressive type of cancer that can develop in different parts of the body, most commonly in the head, neck, or chest. It grows quickly and spreads quickly, making early diagnosis and treatment important. NUT carcinoma is named after a specific genetic change that affects the NUTM1 gene, which plays …
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Polypoid cystitis is a non-cancerous condition caused by long-term (chronic) irritation or inflammation of the bladder’s inner lining. The term polypoid refers to abnormal growths that protrude or stick out from the tissue surface, while cystitis describes inflammation within the bladder. Polypoid cystitis is reversible and typically improves once the source of irritation is removed. …
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A well differentiated neuroendocrine tumor (NET) is the most common type of appendiceal cancer. It starts from specialized neuroendocrine cells in the lining of the appendix. These cells normally help regulate digestion by releasing hormones in response to signals from the nervous system. Most well differentiated NETs are small, slow growing, and curable with surgery. …
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What is mucinous cystadenofibroma? A mucinous cystadenofibroma is a non-cancerous type of ovarian tumour. While these tumours are non-cancerous, they can grow to be very large in size and can cause significant symptoms for many patients. How do pathologists make this diagnosis? For most women, the diagnosis of mucinous cystadenofibroma is only made when the …
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Background: Fibromatosis is a benign (non-cancerous) tumour made up of a specialized type of connective tissue called fibrous tissue. Pathologists divide fibromatosis into two categories depending on where the tumour develops. Tumours that develop just under the skin are called superficial fibromatosis. Tumours that develop deeper within the body are called deep fibromatosis. Types of …
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Hepatocytes are the main type of cell that make up the liver. They are responsible for many important functions, including storing energy, making proteins, and breaking down toxins. A ballooning hepatocyte is a damaged liver cell that has swollen to several times its normal size. Pathologists use the word “ballooning” because the cell looks puffed …
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