Pathology Study Notes on Histological Techniques

The use of ultraviolet rays to illuminate the specimen. It's helpful for studying fluorescent dyes or proteins that emit light when excited by UV rays.

The existing structures are colored the same color as the dye itself.

The existing structures are colored differently than the dye itself. The stained structure takes on a different color than the original color of the dye.

A histological technique where a substance used in the peroxidase immunohistochemistry stain (diaminobenzidine) produces a brown color change, enabling visualization of the target antigen.

A method used to stop tissue decay, preserve its structure, and prevent further biological activity. Formaldehyde is a common fixative.

A method commonly used for staining fat cells. It uses dyes that dissolve in lipids, making those cells appear bright orange or red.

A type of cell death characterized by the breakdown of cells by their own enzymes (autolysis) and the enzymes of invading cells (heterolysis). Cells often lose their structure and can form a liquid mass.

A specific type of irreversible cell death that results in cell shrinkage. It is often associated with DNA fragmentation and the formation of apoptotic bodies.

A type of cell death characterized by the loss of cell structure and function due to lack of oxygen or other injury. It is often characterized by swelling and discoloration.

A process where cells are able to adapt to changing conditions by increasing in size. This often happens in response to increased workload or stimuli.

A process where cells adapt to changing conditions by increasing their number or concentration.

A process where one type of cell is replaced by another type of cell. It often occurs in response to chronic irritation or injury.

A process where cells are unable to adapt to stress, resulting in cell death and injury, often leading to inflammation.

This is a type of necrosis that occurs in cells damaged by anoxia or hypoxia (lack of oxygen), particularly in the heart and kidney. The cells retain their shape and the architecture of the tissue is preserved.

A process involving the breaking down of lipids (fats) by enzymes called lipases. It is often associated with damage to the pancreas or tissue injury.

A type of necrosis where the tissue breaks down and forms a cheesy, amorphous material. This type of necrosis is often found in tuberculosis.

A process where cells begin to undergo a process of self-destruction with the removal of cellular debris called phagocytosis.

A type of necrosis that occurs in blood vessel walls. The affected tissue often appears amorphous, pink, and homogeneous under a microscope.

A type of necrosis that occurs in a localized area of soft tissue that has lost blood supply and becomes infected. The affected tissue often turns dark and mushy.

A type of necrosis that occurs in a localized area of soft tissue that has lost blood supply and becomes dry. The affected tissue often turns black and leathery.

A type of necrosis that occurs when cells are destroyed by a lack of oxygen. This is common in the brain, heart, and kidneys.

A process involving the deposition of calcium salts outside of cells or tissues. This can occur in normal tissue as part of aging or in damaged tissues.

A type of cell injury where water accumulates inside cells, causing them to swell. It is often caused by oxygen deprivation or some types of toxins.

A type of cell injury where fats or lipids accumulate in the cytoplasm of cells, This often occurs in the liver, heart, and kidneys.

An abnormal accumulation of amyloid protein in tissues and organs. This accumulation can lead to dysfunction of these tissues and organs.

An accumulation of a specific type of pigment (a material that adds color) called hemosiderin, which results from the breakdown of iron-containing proteins (like hemoglobin).

A type of icterus (jaundice) caused by a buildup of bilirubin in the blood, most often due to problems with the liver's ability to process or excrete bilirubin.

A process where the body accumulates excessive amounts of melanin (a pigment that gives color to the skin, hair, and eyes).

A type of cell where macrophages have become enlarged and acquired a more epithelial-like appearance.

A type of inflammatory cell that accumulates in tissues in response to chronic inflammation.

A type of cell that is a large, multinucleated cell, often formed by the fusion of multiple macrophages. They are often found in granulomas (areas of chronic inflammation).