Dysplasia is an abnormal growth of cells within a tissue or organ. In most body parts, it is considered a precancerous change. 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 increased …
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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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Epithelial cells are specialized cells normally found on the surface of an organ or tissue. They connect to form a thin barrier called an epithelium. Cancers that arise from these cells are called carcinomas. Epithelial cells are divided into different types based on their shape, size, function, and location. Some are flat and thin, some …
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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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Cytokeratins are a group of proteins called intermediate filaments that are normally found inside specialized epithelial cells that make up the lining of many internal and external surfaces of the body, such as the skin, organs, and glands. These proteins provide structural support and protect against mechanical stress, as well as help maintain their shape and …
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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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In medicine, the term benign describes something that is not cancerous. Most often, it refers to growths or tumors that do not spread or invade other parts of the body. Pathologists, who are doctors specialized in examining tissues and cells, use the word benign to indicate that a particular growth or tissue sample does not …
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Carcinoma in situ (CIS) is an early-stage, non-invasive form of cancer in which abnormal cells are confined to the epithelium – the thin layer of tissue that lines the surfaces and internal structures of the body. “In situ” means “in its original place,” indicating that the cancerous cells have not spread into surrounding tissues or …
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