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 …
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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 …
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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 …
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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 …
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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 …
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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 …
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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 …
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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, …
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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 …
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Cautery artifact is a term pathologists use to describe changes in the appearance of cells and tissue caused by heat during a surgical procedure. These changes are not related to disease, but instead result from a common surgical tool called electrocautery, which uses heat to cut tissue and stop bleeding. Electrocautery is frequently used during …
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