Caryorrhexis is a medical term derived from the Greek words "karyon" meaning nucleus and "rhexis" meaning rupture. It refers to the fragmentation of cell nuclei, which can occur in various pathological conditions. The spelling of this word can be a bit daunting, but using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) can help. The phonetic transcription of caryorrhexis is /ˌkæriəˈrɛksɪs/, which breaks down the word into its individual syllables and sounds. This can make it easier to remember and pronounce correctly.
Caryorrhexis is a technical term used in the field of pathology and cytology to describe a specific phenomenon that occurs within cells. The word itself is derived from the Greek words "karyon," which means nucleus, and "rhexis," which translates to rupture or breakage. Therefore, caryorrhexis can be understood as a process involving the fragmentation or breakdown of the cell nucleus.
In biological terms, the nucleus is the central and most important part of a cell, containing the genetic material that determines the cell's structure and function. Caryorrhexis typically occurs as a result of certain pathological conditions, such as cell death (necrosis), DNA damage, or aging, which cause the nucleus to undergo disintegration.
During caryorrhexis, the nucleus of a cell breaks apart into numerous fragments or undergoes severe condensation and fragmentation. This process is often observable under a microscope, where one can witness the disarray and irregular distribution of the nuclear material within the cell. Caryorrhexis is often considered a pathological or abnormal cellular event that reflects significant damage or degeneration.
The identification of caryorrhexis in cells can be valuable in diagnosing various diseases or conditions. By recognizing the distinct nuclear fragmentation patterns associated with caryorrhexis, healthcare professionals can gain insights into the underlying cellular dysfunction or damage present in a patient's body.
Fragmentation of the nucleus whereby its chromatin is distributed irregularly throughout the cytoplasm; a degenerative process and usually followed by caryolysis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word caryorrhexis originates from the Greek roots karyo meaning nucleus (referring to the cell nucleus) and rhexis meaning rupture or breakage.