In pathology, the term pleomorphic is used to describe cells that appear very different from each other when viewed under a microscope. Pleomorphic cells vary significantly in size, shape, and colour. Although pathologists may describe the whole cell as pleomorphic, they usually focus on the appearance of the cell’s nucleus (the part containing genetic material …
Read More »
In pathology, the term papillary is used to describe finger-like projections of tissue with cells lining the outside surface of the tissue and a central fibrovascular core. Pathologists use the term micropapillary to describe similar but smaller projections of tissue. Papillary growth is most commonly seen in tumours including both benign (noncancerous) and malignant (cancerous) …
Read More »
Myxoid is a descriptive term pathologists use to describe tissue that has a gel-like, loose, or mucus-rich appearance when examined under the microscope. The word comes from the Greek myxa, meaning mucus. When tissue is described as myxoid, it means the space between the cells contains a large amount of a soft, jelly-like material, rather …
Read More »
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 …
Read More »
Hyperplasia is a non-cancerous condition characterized by an increased number of cells within a tissue or organ. This increase in cell number can cause the affected tissue to grow larger or thicker. Hyperplastic is another term commonly used to describe tissues that have undergone hyperplasia. This change can only be seen when the tissue is …
Read More »
A gland is a special structure in the body made up of cells that are designed to produce and release substances. These substances may be fluids, hormones, or enzymes that help the body function normally. Some glands release their products onto body surfaces, such as the inside of the mouth or stomach, while others release …
Read More »
Fibrosis is a process where the body forms too much fibrous connective tissue, commonly known as scar tissue, in an organ or tissue. This usually occurs as part of your body’s natural healing response after injury or long-term inflammation. While fibrosis helps repair damage, excessive scarring can cause problems by replacing healthy tissue and disrupting …
Read More »
In pathology, the term “differentiated” describes how specialized or mature the cells are within a tissue or organ. Differentiation is a natural process where cells develop unique structures and functions, allowing them to perform specific tasks in the body. Well-differentiated cells closely resemble normal, healthy cells, while less differentiated cells look more abnormal and lack …
Read More »
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 »
