Page 37 - Differential Diagnosis in Small Animal Cytology, The Skin and Subcutis
P. 37
er 4
Chapt
24
• Mitotic figures
The presence of increased numbers of mitoses, especially when atypical (characterized by
VetBooks.ir asymmetrical division), is suggestive of malignancy. Certain cell types (e.g. lymphoid cells,
macrophages) may show some degree of mitotic activity in absence of neoplasia.
• Thickened or irregular nuclear membrane and nuclear blebbing/fragmentation
4.3 Cytoplasmic Criteria
• Increased cytoplasmic basophilia
This should be compared with the normal cell counterpart. Increased basophilia indicates
sustained RNA activity, typical of metabolically active cells.
• Abnormal vacuolation and granulation
(A) (B)
Fig. 4.2. Criteria of malignancy. (A) Atypical cytoplasmic vacuolations and reduced cell adhesion (canine
urothelial carcinoma). (B) Atypical perinuclear cytoplasmic vacuolation (canine squamous cell carcinoma).