Invasive melanoma is a type of skin cancer that starts from melanocytes, the cells that produce the pigment melanin. Melanocytes are normally found in the deepest part of the epidermis (the outer layer of the skin). When melanoma first develops, the abnormal melanocytes remain confined to the epidermis — a stage called melanoma in situ. …
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In pathology, invasion refers to the spread of cancer cells from their original location into surrounding healthy tissues. Identifying invasion is important because it allows pathologists to distinguish between malignant (cancerous) and benign (noncancerous) tumors. Malignant tumors are characterized by invasion into nearby tissues, whereas benign tumors typically remain contained within clear and well-defined borders. …
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In pathology, the term “in toto” means that an entire tissue specimen is submitted for microscopic examination without being divided into smaller parts. This approach ensures that the pathologist can evaluate the entire specimen comprehensively. Types of tissues submitted in toto Certain types of tissues or specimens are typically submitted in toto for a thorough …
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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 …
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In pathology, the term “gross” refers to observations made by examining tissues or organs with the naked eye, without the use of a microscope or any magnification tools. Gross examination involves assessing the general appearance and physical features of a tissue sample or organ, including its size, shape, color, texture, and the presence of any …
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Histiocytes are a type of immune cell. They help the body heal after an injury or infection by removing dead cells, blood, micro-organisms (such as bacteria and fungus), and foreign material from the body. Foamy is a term pathologists use to describe histiocytes that are full of waste removed from the surrounding tissue. Pathologists commonly …
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Dysplasia is an abnormal growth of cells within a tissue or organ. In most body parts, it is considered a precursor to cancer. Pathologists use this term when cells appear unusual or disorganized under the microscope. Unlike cancerous cells, the cells in dysplasia are still confined to their original location. Dysplasia is associated with an …
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Chromatin in pathology refers to the appearance of the DNA-protein complex within the nucleus of a cell. This complex can provide valuable insights into the cell’s health, function, and potential abnormalities. How chromatin is organized and presented can indicate various disease states, including cancer. Terms used to describe chromatin When examining cells under the microscope, …
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In pathology, the term tumour describes an abnormal growth of cells in the body. Normally, cells grow and divide in a controlled way. However, tumour cells multiply uncontrollably, forming a lump or mass. Tumours can develop anywhere in your body and can vary significantly in their appearance and behaviour. How are tumours categorized? Tumours are …
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This section includes detailed diagnosis guides designed to help you understand the findings in your pathology report. Each article explains a specific diagnosis, including how it is made and which features in your report may affect treatment or prognosis. If you are looking for a simple definition of a medical term rather than a full …
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