patient education

Carcinoid Tumourlet: Understanding Your Pathology Report

A carcinoid tumourlet is a small, non-cancerous growth found in the lungs. It is made up of special cells called neuroendocrine cells. Neuroendocrine cells are normally found throughout the lungs, especially in the airways. When these cells group together and grow slightly more than normal, they can form tiny structures called tumourlets. To be called …
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Intracytoplasmic: Definition

In pathology, the word intracytoplasmic refers to anything found inside the cytoplasm of a cell. The cytoplasm is the jelly-like material inside each cell that surrounds the nucleus. It contains many small structures called organelles, which help the cell function, store energy, and remove waste. When pathologists examine cells under a microscope, they often describe …
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Low Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion (LSIL): Definition

Low grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) is an abnormal growth caused by infection with human papillomavirus (HPV). The abnormal growth seen in LSIL is an example of dysplasia. It commonly involves the cervix, vagina, vulva, penis, or anal canal. This condition may affect both women and men. The virus infects squamous cells found on the …
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What is the transformation zone?

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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Desmoid Tumour: Understanding Your Pathology Report

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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Non-invasive Follicular Thyroid Neoplasm with Papillary-Like Nuclear Features (NIFTP): Understanding Your Pathology Report

Non-invasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features (NIFTP) is a noncancerous thyroid tumor that grows slowly and has an excellent outcome after surgery. It develops from follicular cells, the normal cells of the thyroid gland that produce thyroid hormone. The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland at the front of the neck. Although NIFTP cells …
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What is human papillomavirus (HPV)?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common virus transmitted through sexual contact. There are over 100 different types of HPV, and some are more likely than others to cause health problems, including cancer. HPV infects specific cells called squamous cells, which are normally found in areas such as the skin, mouth, throat, cervix, penis, and …
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Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH): Definition

Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) is a laboratory test used in pathology to detect and localize the presence or absence of specific DNA sequences on chromosomes. It works by using fluorescent probes that bind to only those parts of the chromosome that match or are complementary to the probe. It is commonly used in the …
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Well Differentiated: Definition

In pathology, well differentiated is a term used to describe how tumor cells look when examined under a microscope. Tumor cells described as well differentiated closely resemble the normal, healthy cells of the tissue from which the tumor started. These cells typically appear organized, uniform in size and shape, and maintain many features of their …
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Melanocytes: Definition

Melanocytes are a type of cell found in the skin and other body parts. These cells produce melanin, the pigment that gives colour to your skin, hair, and eyes. Melanocytes play an important role in protecting your skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. What is their function? The primary function of melanocytes …
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