Histology Flashcards
1
Q
Describe Erosion
A
- Loss of superficial epithelial layers
- Not extended throughout full thickness of epithelium
- Secondary to inflammation or mechanical injury
- Appears reddish
2
Q
Describe Ulcers
A
- Destruction of full thickness of epithelium
- Described as ‘hole in mucosa’
3
Q
Describe Hyperkeratosis
A
- Thickening of keratin/ corneal layer
- Protective mechanism
- Eg: Trauma to mucosa. frictional keratosis
4
Q
Describe Acanthosis
A
- Epithelial hyperplasia
- Increased number of cells in basal and spinous layer –> Increased thickness of squamous epithelium
- Thickening of rete ridges
5
Q
What are Rete Ridges?
A
Projections of the epithelium into the lamina propria. (opposite of papilla)
6
Q
What is papilla?
A
CT projections into epithelium (opposite of rete ridges)
7
Q
Describe Epithelial Atrophy
A
- Thinning of epithelium, associated with decrease in number of epithelial cells
- Loss of rete ridges leading to flat epithelial- CT interface
8
Q
Describe abnormal mitosis
A
- In terms of location and/or appearance
- usually occurs at basal layer
Eg: divide into many unequal sizes, not occuring at basal layer!
9
Q
Describe Vesicle vs Bulla
A
- Fluid filled blisters
- Vesicle: <0.5cm diameter
- Bulla: > 0.5cm diameter
- Can lift entire epithelium up: occur between basal layer and lamina propria. Appears as white patch in histology.
- Eg: Pemphigus vulgaris
10
Q
Describe Endophytic vs Exophytic
A
Endophytic: lesion growing INWARDS, into underlying tissue
- more invasive, poor prognosis
Exophytic: lesion growing outwards from mucosa
11
Q
Describe features of Epithelial Pathology
A
- Irregular epithelial stratification
- Increased N:C ratio due to increased Nuclear size (epithelial dysplasia)
- Hyperchromatic nuclei, darkly stained (indicates proliferative status)
- Drop-shaped rete ridges
- Cellular pleomorphism
