Epithelioid cells are a type of cell that can be found in various tissues throughout the body. The word "epithelioid" is spelled e-p-i-t-h-e-l-i-o-i-d and is pronounced as ɛpɪˈθiliˌɔɪd, with the emphasis on the second syllable. The word derives from the Greek word "epithelium" which means "on top of the nipple". These cells are often characterized by their shape, which is similar to that of epithelial cells, but they can be larger and more irregular in shape. They are found in various diseases, including tuberculosis and sarcoidosis.
Epithelioid cells are a type of specialized cell that resemble the cells found in the epithelial tissue, which lines the surfaces and cavities of the body. These cells are typically larger than regular epithelial cells and have a distinct morphology. They are characterized by a polygonal or oval shape, a well-defined nucleus, and abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm. Epithelioid cells often have a glassy appearance due to the deposition of lipids within their cytoplasm.
These cells play important roles in various physiological processes and pathological conditions. They are primarily found in tissues involved in immune responses, such as granulomas and tumors. In granulomas, epithelioid cells are a key component of the cellular immune response to chronic infections or foreign substances. They aggregate to form a central core known as the epithelioid cell granuloma, which helps to contain and eliminate the offending agent.
Epithelioid cells are also present in certain types of tumors, such as epithelioid mesothelioma and epithelioid sarcoma. Their presence in these cancers can aid in the diagnosis and classification of the disease.
In summary, epithelioid cells are specialized cells that resemble the cells of the epithelial tissue. They have a characteristic morphology and are involved in immune responses and certain types of cancers.
The word "epithelioid" is derived from the Greek word "epithelium" which means "upon the nipple" or "surface tissue". The term "epithelioid cells" is used to describe cells that resemble epithelial cells in appearance or function. These cells often have a polygonal shape and may form clusters or sheets similar to the arrangement of cells in epithelial tissues.