Pleomorphism (cytology)

Not to be confused with Pleomorphism (microbiology).
A micrograph showing cells with marked nuclear shape and size variation, a component of nuclear pleomorphism.

Pleomorphism is a term used in histology and cytopathology to describe variability in the size, shape and staining of cells and/or their nuclei.

It is a feature characteristic of malignant neoplasms, and dysplasia. Certain benign cell types may have pleomorphism, e.g. neuroendocrine cells, Arias-Stella reaction.

See also

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