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In some cases medicine vial caps buy generic celexa 10 mg on line, the presence of metaplastic cartilage is also helpful in this distinction. Fibro-osseous pseudotumor may also contain cartilage; however, a fasciitis-like proliferation associated with osteoid is distinctive. The palisade of fibroblasts helps distinguish calcifying aponeurotic fibroma from calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease (pseudogout). Chondromas of soft tissue lack the ftbroblastic proliferation seen in calcifying aponeurotic ftbroma and consist of more uniformly mature hyaline cartilage. Myxofibrosarcoma, typically a deep-seated tumor that occurs on the proximal extremities of older adults, in contrast to superficial acral fibromyxoma, has cellular pleomorphism and a characteristically multilobular growth pattern. Recognition of some variants of dermatofibroma is critical because they may mimic malignant neoplasms. Significant controversy has existed with regard to whether dermatofibroma is a reactive or neoplastic process. Although many dermatofibromas are perceived to develop at sites of trauma, such as insect bites, clonal cytogenetic abnormalities have been identified in some cases of dermatofibroma. The overlying skin may be erythematous or hyperpigmented with the borders gradually fading to normal background skin color. Tumors characteristically exhibit the "dimple sign"-compression of the lateral borders of the tumor causes central depression or dimpling. Clinically, tumors with extensive hyperpigmentation may be mistaken for a melanocytic lesion. Dermatofibromas sometimes occur after minor trauma such as an insect bite and may persist for many years, and some may regress spontaneously. Recurrence is infrequent after excision of the classical type, but the atypical, aneurysmal, and cellular variants recur in 20% of cases, especially if marginally or incompletely excised. The aneurysmal variant often shows rapid growth and can attain large size, causing clinical concern. Clinically, aneurysmal fibrous histiocytoma often is mistaken for a melanocytic or vascular neoplasm owing to its red-brown color secondary to hemorrhage and hemosiderin deposition. Rare metastases of some variants, especially cellular and atypical fibrous histiocytoma, have been reported. These are remarkably heterogeneous tumors with many variants described (see Table 30-14). This tumor varies tremendously with regard to cellularity, vascularity, hemorrhage or hemosiderin deposition, degree of sclerosis a feature of later-stage lesions), and types of composite cells eg, giant cells, atypical cells, lipid-laden histiocytes). The composite cells are spindled to oval with vesicular nuclei and variable amounts of amphophilic cytoplasm. This entrapment of collagen is observed in its most characteristic pattern at the periphery of the tumor. In addition to the fibrohistiocytic cells, lymphocytes, xanthoma cells, histiocytes, osteoclast-like giant cells, and Touton-type giant cells may be seen in variable numbers. In some cases, a striking basaloid hyperplasia occurs that may mimic bual cell carcinoma. Occasional dermatofibromas extend into the superficial subcutaneous fat along the fibrous trabeculae separating fat lobules, resulting in a starburst or spoke-wh~l pattern. Bxamples with extensive hemosiderin deposition have been designated "hemosiderotic hi. Hemorrhage into these spaces causes confusion with vascular neoplasms, particularly Kaposi sarcoma. There is a variable proportion of pleomorphic cell& with plump, spindle, or polyhedral cells with large hyperchromatic, irregular, or bizarre nuclei. Multinudeated giant cell& are often present with bizarre nuclei and foamy, sometimes hemosiderin-rich cytoplasm. The background often shows classical features ofdermatofibroma such as a storiform growth pattern and entrapped hyaline collagen bundles, especially at the periphery. In the largest reported series, 2 of 59 patients developed metastases, although referral bias likely occurred in this study. In a series of metastasizing dermatofibromas, the authors were not able to predict on histologic grounds which cases are capable of metastasis. This is an under-recognized but biologically distinctive variant of dermatofibroma. An admixture of inflammatory cells, foam cells, and giant cells often is present but sparse. Fascicular growth of eosinophilic spindled cells with ovoid to cigar-shaped nuclei, perinuc:Iear vacuoles, and smooth muscle actin and desmin expression are characteristic of leiomyosarcoma. Other areas of the tumor have characteristics commonly found in dermatofibroma, such as collagen entrapment. The presence of thick-walled muscular vessels or organizing thrombi favor spindle cell hemangioma. Epithelioid fibrous histiocytoma may be confused with melanocytic lesions, including epithelioid nevus. This variant occurs most commonly on the ankles and contains cells filled with lipid vacuoles. Lesions with atypical features require a more generous excision and careful follow-up. Atypical fibroxanthoma Atypical fibroxanthoma is characterized by a highly pleomorphic histologic phenotype usually associated with malignant neoplasms. Despite its seemingly malignant histologic features, atypical fibroxanthoma has little potential for metastasis. Given the differences in behavior of atypical fibroxanthoma compared with other pleomorphic tumors, particularly melanoma, the pathologist must approach atypical fibroxanthoma as a diagnosis of exclusion. Clinical Features Atypical fibroxanthoma occurs almost exclusively in the sun-damaged skin of older adults (Table 30-15). Cases associated with xeroderma pigmentosum and immunosuppression have been reported. Many cases of purported atypical fibroxanthoma occurring in nonsun-damaged skin in young patients probably represent atypical fibrous histiocytomas. The bulk of the tumor is located in the dermis; however, some tumors show very superficial extension into subcutaneous fat Tumors involving the superficial dermis may exhibit a grenz zone between the epidermis and the neoplasm or extend to the dermal-epidermal interface, often with ulceration. Intraepidermal pagetoid spread is not seen, and the presence of intraepidermal malignant cells should raise the possibility of melanoma or pleomorphic squamous cell carcinoma with pagetoid spread. Although the degree of pleomorphism varies from case to case, the degree of cytologic atypia is generally uniform throughout a given tumor. Some tumors show a relatively monomorphic fascicular pattern that mimics atypical intradermal smooth muscle neoplasm or soft tissue leiomyosarcoma. Multinucleated giant histiocytes, including Touton-type giant cells, are also commonly noted. Differential Diagnosis the diagnosis of atypical fibroxanthoma must be carefully approached as a diagnosis of exclusion because all other tumors considered in the differential diagnosis are metastasizing malignant neoplasms. If strict criteria are followed, the vast majority of atypical fibroxanthomas are cured by simple excision with clear margins. Tumors with atypical features are best regarded as potentially malignant, and the clinician should be alerted to this possibility. An unequivocal diagnosis of atypical fibroxanthoma should not be rendered in cases with atypical features. Atypical features that favor a malignant diagnosis include significant extension into adipose tissue, necrosis, and vascular invasion. Cases reported as metastatic atypical fibroxanthoma have demonstrated some of these features and form the rationale for requiring strict criteria to establish a diagnosis of atypical fibroxanthoma. Because the entire base of the lesion must be examined to make this determination, a diagnosis based on a poorly sampled specimen, shave biopsy, or punch biopsy is not advised. In a large series of 140 atypical fibro:unthomas, 9 patients developed recurrence, and none developed metastatic disease. These studies should never be used to "rule-in" a diagnosis of atypical fibroxanthoma; rather, they are used to rule out other tumors. Because atypical fibroxanthoma arises in severely sun-damaged skin, the presence of actinic keratosis or squamous cell carcinoma in situ in the same biopsy should not reflexively lead to a diagnosis of pleomorphic squamous cell carcinoma but nevertheless should be sought carefully. It is not surprising that atypical fibroxanthoma may coexist with other tumors related to sun exposure, especially basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

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Prognostic factors for local recurrence symptoms kidney pain order celexa in united states online, metastasis and survival rates in squamous cell carcinoma of the skin, ear and lip. Metastases from squamous cell carcinoma of the skin and lip: an analysia of 27 cases. Metalloproteinase-2 expression correlates with aggressiveness of cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas. Skin cancer in organ transplant recipients: epidemiology, pathogenesia, and management. Skin cancer risk in hematopoietic stem-cell transplant recipients compared with background population and renal transplant recipients: a populationbased cohort study. Specific expression of Epstein-Barr virus in cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas from heart transplant recipients. Human papillomavirus-58 and -73-associated digital squamous cell carcinoma in a patient with aggressive digital papillary adenocarcinoma. Role of human papillomavirus in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma: a meta-analysis. Absence of human herpesvirus 8 and Epstein-Barr virus genome sequences in cutaneous epithelial neoplasms arising in immunosuppressed organ-transplant patients. Aggressive squamous cell carcinoma in persons infected with the human immunodeficiency virus. Cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas of the lower extremity: a distinct subset of squamous cell carcinomas. Actinic keratosis is an early in situ squamous cell carcinoma: a proposal for reclassification. Perineural granulomatous inflammation: a potential harbinger of perineural invasion in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. FoxP3 expression is increased in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma with perineural invasion. Benign lymphoepithelial lesion associated with squamous cell carcinoma of the skin: an immunohistochemical and molecular genetic study. Cutaneous infiltrate of chronic lymphocytic leukemia and relationship to primary cutaneous epithelial neoplasms. Association of pain and itch with depth of invasion and inflammatory cell constitution in skin cancer. Tumor remnants within giant cells following irradiation of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma with osteoclastic giant-cell-like proliferation. The adverse prognostic effect of tumor budding on the evolution of cutaneous head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Proliferating trichilemmal tumour: p53 immunoreactivity in association with p27Kipl over-expression indicates a low-grade carcinoma profile. Analysis of p53 and bcl-2 protein expression in the non-tumorigenic, pretumorigenic, and tumorigenic keratinocytic hyperproliferative lesions. Expression of p53 in the evolution of squamous cell carcinoma: correlation with the histology of the lesion. Association of p63 with proliferative potential in normal and neoplastic human keratinocytes. Immunohistochemical demonstration of carcinoembryonic antigen and related antigens in various cutaneous keratinous neoplasms and verruca vulgaris. Pigmented squamous cell carcinoma of the skin: morphologic and immunohistochemical study offive cases. Pigmented squamous cell carcinoma of the skin: report of 2 cases and review of the literature. Dermal squamo-melanocytic tumor: a unique biphenotypic neoplasms of uncertain biological potential. Adenoid squamous cell carcinoma (adenoacanthoma): a clinicopathologic study of 155 patients. A clinicopathologic study of 21 cases of adenoid squamous cell carcinoma of the eyelid and periorbital region. Syndecan-1 expression is diminished in acantholytic cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Erythrophagocytic tumour cells in melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma of the skin. A case of pseudovascular adenoid squamous cell carcinoma of the skin with spindle pattern. Basaloid squamous cell carcinoma with "monster" cells: a mimic of pleomorphic basal cell carcinoma. Carcinoma arising in epidermoid cysts: a case series and aetiological investigation of human papillomavirus. Follicular squamous cell carcinoma of the skin: a poorly recognized neoplasms arising from the wall of hair follicles. Follicular cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma: an under-recognized neoplasm arising from hair appendage structures. Increased level of c-erbB-2/neu/ Her-2 protein in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Altered distribution and expression of protein tyrosine phosphatases in normal human skin as compared to squamous cell carcinomas. Expression of the human erythrocyte glucose transporter Glut 1 in cutaneous neoplasia. The expression of podoplanin is associated with poor outcome in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Expression of the adherens junction protein vinculin in human basal and squamous cell tumors: relationship to invasiveness and metastatic potential. Expression of e-cadherin and beta-catenin in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma and its precursors. Expression of insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor in conventional cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma with different histological grades of differentiation. Overexpression of p300 correlates with poor prognosis in patients with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Desmoplastic squamous cell carcinoma of skin and vermilion surface: a highly malignant subtype of skin cancer. Spindle cell neoplasms coexpressing cytokeratin and vimentin (metaplastic squamous cell carcinoma). Squamous cell carcinoma detected by high-molecular-weight cytokeratin immunostaining mimicking atypical fibroxanthoma. Choriocarcinoma-like squamous cell carcinoma: a new variant expressing human chorionic gonadotropin. Plantar verrucous carcinoma (epithelioma cuniculatum): case report with review of the literature. Verrucous carcinoma due to arsenic ingestion in a psoriasis patient J Cutan Med Surg. Sakurai K, Urade M, Takahashi Y, et al Increased expression ofc-erbB-3 protein and proliferating cell nuclear antigen during development of verrucous carcinoma of the oral mucosa. Thavaraj S, Cobb A, Kalavrezos N, et al Carcinoma cuniculatum arising in the tongue. Epithelioma cuniculatum (carcinoma cuniculatum) of the thumb: a case report and literature review. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen distribution in verrucous carcinoma of the skin. Carcinoma (epithelioma) cuniculatum: a clinico-pathological study ofnineteen cases and review of the literature. Rapidly invasive BuschkeLowenstein tumor associated with human papillomavirus types 6 and 52. Anadolu R, Boyvat A, Calikoglu E, et al Buschke-Loewenstein tumour is not a low-grade carcinoma but a giant verruca. Comprehensive analysis of human papillomavirus prevalence and the potential role of low-risk types in verrucous carcinoma. Assaf C, Steinhoff M, Petrov I, et al Verrucous carcinoma of the axilla: case report and review. Expression of cell cycle-associated proteins p53, pRb, p16, p27 and correlation with survival: a comparative study on oral squamous cell carcinoma and verrucous carcinoma. Adenosquamous carcinoma: a report of nine cases with p63 and cytokeratin 5/6 staining.

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Ultrastructurally medicine cabinet cheap 10 mg celexa visa, the swollen cells of the midepithelium contain clumped glycogen-like material and abnormal mitochondria. The superficial ballooned cells have membrane-bound spaces that contain fragmented organelles, abnormal keratohyalin-like granules, and dispersed tonofilaments. These features have been interpreted as reversible degenerative changes in the midepithelium and irreversible degenerative changes in the superficial cells. There is keratinocyte edema within the superficial epithelium with some cells appearing anucleate. They present as soft-ti1sue vesicles that are typically asymptomatic: and colored pink to blue. There is a slight female predilection, and they are noted most often in the fifth or sixth decade. Within the lining may be noted focal epithelial plaque1 containing glycogen-rich dear cel11 arranged in a whorling pattern. Differential Diagnosis A lateral periodontal cyst features identical histopathology but Lymphoepithelial cysts are seen most commonly in young adults. They are lined by parakeratinized stratified squamous epithelium and exhibit lymphocyte exocytosis. Glandular odontogenic cysts demonstrate a similar thin lining of odontogenic epithelium with epithelial plaques but also exhibit numerous mucous cells and duct-like structures. Salivary duct cysts (mucous retention cysts) lack a significant lymphoid component within their walls. Papillary cystadenoma lymphomatosum (Warthin tumors) is a benign salivary gland tumor that also features an epithelial lining and prominent lymphoid component. However, this tumor is seen primarily within the parotid gland and exhibits multiple papillary infoldings and oncocytic metaplasia of the epithelium. However, it is possible that this is a developmental malformation that facilitates candidal colonization since patients with this condition rarely demonstrate candidiasis elsewhere in the mouth, and the clinical lesion persists even after treatment with anti. Hlstopethologlc Features There is atrophy of the filiform papillae with parakeratoai. There is psoriasiform epithelial hyperplasia with confluent rete ridges, papillary edema, and a variable chronic inflammatory infiltrate in the connective tissue. Some biopsies, if deep and taken from the midline, may contain the median raphe of the tongue, a homogeneously hyalinized, hypocellular, and avucular band into which the muscle fibers of the tongue decwsate. A keratin-filled lumen is surrounded by stratified squamous epithelium and lymphoid tissue. A hyalinized band (median raphe) underlies elongated rete ridges and inflammatory cells. Ballooned cells show nuclear condensations and eosinophilic dense nuclear inclusions. Hairy leukoplakia occurs as a painless white plaque that has a corrugated, shaggy ("hairy. When on the dorsum or the buccal mucosa, the condition may appear as a homogeneous dense white plaque. There is no evidence of dysplasia, and inflammation in the lamina propria is insignificant. Squamous papllloma Squamous papillomas are common benign epithelial proliferations exhibiting a verrucous or papillary surface. They are typic:ally pedunculated exophytic lesions that are white but may be red or normal in color, depending on their extent of keratinization. Hlstopathologic Features Papillomas demonstrate an exophytic, papillary proliferation of stratified squamous epithelium. Lesions on the soft palate often exhibit prominent intracellular edema, while those on the tongue are often thickly keratinized. Differential Diagnosis Verruca vulgaris is distinguished by marked hyperkeratosis, coarse keratohyaline granules, axially inclined rete ridges, and more prominent koilocytes. Condylomas are sessile and display rete ridges that are broader than those of papillomas; koilocytes are consistently present. Verrucous hyperplasia demonstrates a proliferation of hyperkeratotic and acanthotic surface epithelium arranged in prominent papillary projections. It has been reported frequently in Inuit and Native American populations, Africans, Cape Malays, Caucasians, and Arabs. Up to 25% of patients may have another member of the household similarly affected, and in general, most afflicted individuals come from low socioeconomic groups, suggesting horizontal transmission. Predisposing local and systemic conditions include trauma, hypersensitivity to food, hematinic deficiencies, inflammatory bowel disease, immunoglobulin deficiencies, Beh~et disease, neutropenia, and some collagen-vascular disorders. The disorder presents as multiple mucosa-colored or pale pink papules with smooth or slightly papillary surfaces. Histopathologic Features There is an exophytic squamous epithelial proliferation with only slight surface undulations. Differential Diagnosis Condylomas and papillomas have obviously papillary surfaces, and acanthosis is much more pronounced in condylomas than in focal epithelial hyperplasia. Lesions are evanescent, painful, discrete ulcers, single or multiple, that are less than 1 cm in diameter with erythematous borders, occur on the nonkeratinized mucosa, and heal within 1 to 2 weeks. Common sites are the buccal and lip mucosa, ventral/lateral tongue, and soft palate-all areas of the mouth that are not normally keratinized. The herpetiform type occurs in crops of many small ulcers, whereas major ulcers measure greater than 1 cm and take weeks, if not months, to heal, often with scarring. Histopathologic Features the ulcer base contains granulation tissue with acute and chronic inflammatory cells and an overlying fibrin clot that contains many neutrophils unless the patient is neutropenic. Underlying skeletal fibers, if penetrated by inflammatory cells, exhibit myositis. Differential Diagnosis If there is significant stromal eosinophilia associated with myositis and proliferation oflarge mononuclear histiocyte-like cells, a diagnosis of traumatic ulcerative granuloma should be made (see the following section). Traumatic ulcerative granuloma Synonyms: Traumatic ulcerative granuloma with stromal eosinophilia, traumatic eosinophilic granuloma/ulcer of the tongue, granuloma eosinophilium diutinum, Riga-Fede disease. The term "Riga-Fede disease" refers to tongue ulcers in infants and young children caused by the trauma of rubbing the tongue against erupting teeth. It occurs both in infants, during eruption ofthe primary dentition (Riga-Fede disease), and in adults. The tongue is affected in 50% to 75% of patients; the lip and buccal mucosa are the next most frequently involved sites. They heal uneventfully after biopsy or on their own, although it may take several weeks. Histopathologic Features Chronic bite injuries are characterized by varying degrees of hyperparakeratosis that may be marked; the surface of the keratin is shaggy and irregular with fissures and clefts rimmed by many bacterial colonies and rarely candidal hyphae in the absence of intraepithelial inflammation. There is benign epithelial hyperplasia, variable papillomatosis, and intracellular edema. Differential Diagnosis Beneath the ulcerated epithelium is a mass of granulation tissue that may be exuberant and exophytic. There is a polymorphous inflammatory infiltrate with many eosinophils that extends deep into the tissues, often into the muscle and salivary gland. A large number of large mononuclear histiocyte-like cells with pale vesicular nuclei and eosinophils is a typical finding. Linea alba presents clinically as a white line along the mid-buccal mucosa bilaterally at the level of the occlusal plane and shows milder histologic changes. Primary leukoedema does not show hyperparakeratosis or surface bacterial colonization but will exhibit benign epithelial hyperplasia and intracellular edema. Among the drugs that have been implicated are antihypertensive agents, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, cholesterol-lowering medications, and drugs used to treat rheumatologic conditions. Discoid lupus erythematosus and chronic the atypical histiocytic granuloma contains sheets of transformed lymphocytes and centroblasts, often with cellular pleomorphism and mitoses, resembling a lymphoma. The term "chronic bite injury" should be reserved for lesions that result from chronic mucosa!

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In addition treatment tinnitus celexa 40mg discount, nodular fasciitis does not show interdigitation among pree:&isting collagen, a feature characteristic of dermato6. Pibromatosis is more unifOrmly cellular and fasdcular, is associated with more abundant dense collagen. The fibroblasts in 6bromatosis are more uniform and tend to have wavy nuclei Lowgrade myxofibrosarcoma is oc:casionally misdiagnosed as nodular fasciitis. This tumor is distinguished from nodular fasciitis by characteristic "curvilinear" venels and the presence of c. Some cases may be familial or be associated with superficial fibromatosis such as Dupuytren disease. Histopathologic Features Microscopically, knuckle pads are composed of a bland fibrous proliferation, usually less cellular than fibromatosis. They usually are associated with overlying epidermal acanthosis and hyperkeratosis. Differential Diagnosis Knuckle pad may resemble scarring fibrosis secondary to trauma but is distinguished by clinical history. Tumors located at some sites show the capacity for locally aggressive and destructive growth; however, these tumors never metastasize. Clinical Features Palmar fibromatosis (Dupuytren contracture) is a common tumor affecting mostly older adults, with a male predominance (Table 30-9). This tumor generally begins as small nodules that progressively enlarge to form a cordlike band. Many patients eventually develop flexion contracture with significant functional impairment. Fasciectomy with surgical division of the fibrous bands or complete removal of the lesion often are performed to give functional improvement. Plantar fibromatosis (Ledderhose disease) differs from its palmar counterpart by its tendency to occur in younger age groups and is less commonly associated with functional impairment. Plantar fibromatosis may cause minor discomfort when walking but rarely causes contractures. Histopathologic Features Superficial fibromatoses involve mainly fibrotendinous and subcutaneous tissue and appear to proceed through several histologic stages as the lesion ages (see Table 30-9). Early lesions tend to be more cellular, more mitotically active, and composed of plumper myofibroblasts. Later-stage lesions are much less cellular, less mitotically active, and tend to have more abundant hyalinized stromal collagen. Both palmar and plantar fibromatoses are often more cellular than their deep soft-tissue counterparts, a feature that often causes concern. Alternatively, the presence of nuclear P-catenin is not entirely specific for fibromatosis and can be seen in a variety of potential histologic mimics. It should be emphasized that mitotic figures may be found in all forms of fibromatosis and that there is no "cutoff" that reliably separates fi. Desmoid fibromatosis is almost invariably more deep-seated and typically lacks the nodular architecture often seen in plantar fibromatosis. Penile fibromatosis Cfinical Features Penile fibromatosis (Peyronie disease) is considered by some to be a form of fibromatosis. Middle-aged and older men develop a slowly enlarging fibrous thickening of the penis, usually on the dorsum (Table 30-10). The pathogenesis and relationship to other forms of fibromatosis are poorly understood; however, it seems probable that Peyronie disease has an inflammatory basis, possibly vasculitic: in nature. Slowly enlarging fibrous thickening of the penis, usually on the doraum Pain and curvature of the penis, exacerbated by erection Histopathologic features but desmin staining is usually absent. Differential Diagnosis Chronic inflammation in early lesions Scar-like fibrous proliferation as lesion ages Calcification and metaplastic ossification in some cases Fibromatos. Differential Diagnosis the absence ofa history of trauma and progressive slow growth over years help to distinguish penile fibromatosis from a simple scar. Calcifying aponeurotic fibroma Clinical Features Calcifying aponeurotic fibroma is an extremely rare tumor that classical. Hfstopathologlc Features the histologic findings are distinctive; a fibrous proliferation of spindled to epithelioid cells is present within a densely collagenous background (see Table 30-11). Areas of calcification may be associated with cartilage formation, particularly in long-standing lesions. J 57 expression can be detected in calcifying aponeurotic fibroma using immunohistochemistry. Pleomorphic or spindle cell melanoma must also be considered in the differential diagnosis of atypical fibro:s:anthoma. The epidermis should be examined for atypical intraepidermal malignant melanocytes and pre<:UrSor lesions. In most cases, careful histologic evaluation reveals more typical areas of angiosarcoma, with dissecting vascular channels lined by hyperchromatic cells. The tumor is composed, in variable proportion, of sheets of histiocytoid mononuclear cells. The degree of cellularity and collagenization varies and is probably related to age of the lesion. Multinucleated cells may be difficult to find and are entirely absent in some tumors. In addition, xanthoma cells, chronic inflammatory cells, and hemosiderinladen macrophages may be present. The presence of cleft-like vascular spaces and the absence of giant cells favors fibroma of tendon sheath. In difficult cases, keratin immunoreactivity helps confirm a diagnosis of epithelioid sarcoma. Other commonly present features include a peripheral shell of woven bone and cystic change, reminiscent of aneurysmal bone cyst. Most tumors are smaller than 2 cm, asymptomatic, and tend to be located on the lateral aspect of the digit. The pathognomonic histologic finding is the presence of cytoplasmic eosinophilic inclusion bodies, typically best seen on trichrome stain. Lesions may be located primarily in the dermis or extend deeply into the subcutaneous tissue, even to periosteum. The inclusions have been shown to be composed of actin filaments by immunodectron microscopy. It is interesting to note that comparable inclusions have been recognized in other types of myofibroblastic or myoid lesions. Early literature emphasized cases with systemic involvement, giving the false impression that this was the most common form of the disease. Because lesions may recur after surgical excision and most lesions eventually show spontaneous regression if left untreated. Patients with visceral involvement, particularly lung and gastrointestinal tract, have a worse prognosis with a potentially fatal out. The second component is characterized by more cellular areas of primitive small, round to spindled cells with scant cytoplasm. A distinctly 2:0nal appearance is seen in most myofibromas, with the myoid 2:0nes typically present at the periphery of the lesion and the primitive zones more centrally located. Solitary myofibroma of adults is histologically similar to the infantile form, except that there is often only a small component of primitive cells with a hemangiopericytoma-like vascular pattem. The distinctive zonal architecture ofchildhood myofibromas is seen less often in adult cases. The former is distinguished by the presence ofdistinctive whorled organoid nests of primitive spindled cells in my. Most important is the recognition that mitoses, neaosis, and vascular invasion may be observed in infantile myofibromatosis and are not indicative ofa malignant neoplasm. Differential Diagnosis the biphasic pattern allows differentiation from desmoid fibromatosis. The hands of amorphous hyaline material lack the fihrillar appearance ofkeloidal collagen. Infantile myofihromatosis could be confused clinically; however, the latter is usually more cellular; often has a hemangiopericytoma-like vascular pattern; and, most importantly, lacks hyaline material.

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Theoretically medicine 20 cheap celexa online master card, the chain bears 12 ganglia corresponding to the 12 thoracic nerves. The first thoracic ganglion is commonly fused with the inferior cervical ganglion to form the cervicothoracic, or stellate ganglion. The remaining thoracic ganglia generally lie at the levels of the corresponding intervertebral discs and the intercostal nerves. Course and Relations Hemiazygos vein pierces the left crus of the diaphragm, ascends on the left side of the vertebra overlapped by the aorta. Tributaries the chain crosses the neck of the first rib, the heads of the second to tenth ribs, and bodies of the eleventh and twelfth thoracic vertebrae. The whole chain descends in front of the posterior intercostal vessels and the intercostal nerves, and passes deep to the medial arcuate ligament to become continuous with the lumbar part of the sympathetic chain. Branches Lateral Branches for the Limbs and Body Wall Thorax Ninth to eleventh left posterior intercostal veins and oesophageal veins. Course Each ganglion is connected with its corresponding spinal nerve by two rami, the white (preganglionic) and grey (postganglionic) rami communicantes. Medial Branches for the Viscera 2 Accessory hemiazygos vein begins at the medial end of the fourth or fifth intercostal space, and descends on the left side of the vertebral column. At the level of eighth thoracic vertebra, it turns to the right, passes behind the aorta and the thoracic duct, and joins the azygos vein. It descends obliquely on the vertebral bodies, pierces the crus of the diaphragm, and ends (in the abdomen) mainly in the coeliac ganglion, and partly in the aorticorenal ganglion and the suprarenal gland. Axons of pain fibres conveyed by the sensory sympathetic cardiac nerves reach thoracic one to thoracic five segments of spinal cord mostly through the dorsal root ganglia of the left side. One student is climbing the stairs at a fast pace as he is late for his examination and the lift got out of order. Ans: As he is late for the examination, the sympathetic system gets overactive, increasing the heart rate, and blood pressure. The sweat secretion is markedly increased, including the pale skin with hair standing erect. The role of intercostal nerve preservation in acute pain control after thoracotomy. Describe the internal thoracic artery under following headings: Origin, course, termination and branches. The order of structures in the upper part of intercostal space from above downwards is: a. Which posterior intercostal veins of left side drain into accessory hemiazygos vein During inspiration, the pressure becomes more negative, and air is drawn into the lungs covered with its visceral and parietal layers of pleura. Visceral layer is inseparable from the lung and is supplied and drained by the same arteries, veins and nerves as lungs. In a similar manner, the parietal pleura follows the walls of the thoracic cavity with cervical, costal, diaphragmatic and mediastinal parts. Cut through the parietal pleura in the first intercostal space on both sides as far back as possible. Use a bone cutter to cut 2nd to 7th ribs in midaxillary line on each side of thorax. Lift the inferior part of manubrium and body of sternum with ribs and costal cartilages and reflect it towards abdomen. Identify the pleura extending from the back of sternum onto the mediastinum to the level of lower border of heart. Note the smooth surface of pleura where it lines the thoracic wall and covers the lateral aspects of mediastinum. Remove the pleura and the endothoracic fascia from the back of sternum and costal cartilages which is reflected towards abdomen. Pull the lung laterally from the mediastinum and find its root with the pulmonary ligament extending downwards from it. Identify the phrenic nerve with accompanying blood vessels anterior to the root of the lung. Make a longitudinal incision through the pleura only parallel to and on each side of the phrenic nerve. A longitudinal ridge formed by right brachiocephalic vein down to first costal cartilage and by superior vena cava up to the bulge of the heart. A smaller longitudinal ridge formed by inferior vena cava formed between the heart and the diaphragm. Phrenic nerve with accompanying vessels forming a vertical ridge on these two venae cavae passing anterior to root of the lung. Right vagus nerve descending posteroinferiorly across the trachea, behind the root of the lung. Bodies of the thoracic vertebrae behind oesophagus with posterior intercostal vessels and azygos vein lying over them. Sympathetic trunk on the heads of the upper ribs and on the sides of the vertebral bodies below this, anterior to the posterior intercostal vessels and intercostal nerves. Left common carotid and left subclavian arteries passing superiorly from the arch of aorta. Phrenic and vagus nerves descending between these vessels and the lateral surface of the aortic arch. Identify longitudinally running sympathetic trunk on the posterior part of thoracic cavity. Find delicate greater and lesser splanchnic nerves arising from the trunk on the medial side. On the right side, identify and follow one of the divisions of trachea to the lung root and the superior and inferior venae cavae till the pericardium. The cavity of the thorax contains the right and left pleural cavities which are completely invaginated and occupied by the lungs. The right and left pleural cavities are separated by a thick median partition called the mediastinum. Each pleural sac is invaginated from its medial side by the lung, so that it has an outer layer, the parietal pleura, and an inner layer, the visceral or pulmonary pleura. The two layers are continuous with each other around the hilum of the lung, and enclose between them a potential space, the pleural cavity. Pulmonary/Visceral Pleura Surface Marking of the Lung/Visceral Pleura the serous layer of pulmonary pleura covers the surfaces and fissures of the lung, except at the hilum and along the attachment of the pulmonary ligament where it is continuous with the parietal pleura. The apex of the visceral pleura coincides with the cervical pleura, and is represented by a line convex upwards with a point 1 rising 2. The lower border of each visceral pleura lies two ribs higher than the parietal pleural reflection. It covers the base of the lung and gets continuous with mediastinal pleura medially and costal pleura laterally. Features of Parietal Pleura the parietal pleura is thicker than the pulmonary pleura, and is subdivided into the following four parts. It is reflected over the root of the lung and becomes continuous with the pulmonary pleura around the hilum. The cervical pleura extends into the neck, nearly 5 cm above the first costal cartilage and 2. Cervical pleura is related anteriorly to the the cervical pleura is represented by a curved line forming a dome over the medial one-third of the clavicle with a height of about 2. The anterior margin, or the costomediastinal line of pleural reflection is as follows: On the right side, it extends from the sternoclavicular joint downwards and medially to the midpoint of the sternal angle. From here, it continues vertically downwards to the midpoint of the xiphisternal joint crosses to right of xiphicostal angle. It then arches outwards and descends along the sternal margin up to the sixth costal cartilage. The inferior margin, or the costodiaphragmatic line of pleural reflection passes laterally from the lower limit of its anterior margin, so that it crosses the eighth rib in the midclavicular line, the tenth rib in the midaxillary line, and the twelfth rib at the lateral border of the sacrospinalis muscle. Thus the parietal pleurae descend below the costal margin at three places, at the right xiphicostal angle, and at the right and left costovertebral angles, below the twelfth rib behind the upper poles of the kidneys. Pulmonary Ligament the parietal pleura surrounding the root of the lung extends downwards beyond the root as a fold called the pulmonary ligament.

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Because of the paucity or absence of melanin symptoms shingles order cheap celexa line, these cellular foci appear pale or clear on scanning magnification, in contrast to the often heavily pigmented areas containing dendritic melanocytes, melanophages, and sclerosis. However, the degree of melaninization may vary from barely visible fine granular melanin to heavy pigmentation obscuring cytologic detail. However, the latter cells are usually located in peripheral fibrous trabeculae or in areas of sclerosis. As a general rule, if 2 or more mitoses are present per mmi, the lesion should be carefully evaluated for other corroborating evidence of malignancy. Alterations of blood vessels also tend to be a prominent feature and include ectatic vessels with hyalinization of their walls and thrombosis. Metastases from such lesions have been observed after the passage of several years (as long as 15 years). Patch-like blue news Clinical and Histopathologic Features A macular area of blue-gray pigmentation from 1 cm to several centimeters clinically resembles a Mongolian spot. Eruptive or agminated blue nevi, patch-like blue nevus, pilar neurocristic hamartoma, and plaque-type blue nevus are probably closely related. There is some similarity to patch and plaque-like blue nevi in humans and equine melanotic disease. Prominent perlfollicular accumulation of dendritic melanocytes shows extension to nearby eccrine ducts. Target blue news Clinical and Histopathologic Features A central dark blue nodule is surrounded by a flesh-colored annulus and more peripheral blue-black macular annulus. The lesion measures approximately 1 cm in greatest diameter and has been reported to occur on the dorsal aspect of the foot:1n the dark central nodule has the features ofa typical blue nevus-that is, a fibrotic tumor containing pigmented dendritic cells and fwliform cells. The flesh-colored annulus shows dermal sclerosis and significantly reduced numbers of pigmentcontaining cells. However, in contrast, the most peripheral zone has prominent numbers of the pigmented dendritic cells. Melanoma arising In blue news Synonyms: Blue nevus-like melanoma, malignant blue nevus. There is usually a history of recent enlargement or change in a previously stable blue nevus. Melanin pigment and cytoplasmic vacuolization are noted in approximately two-thirds of cases. Array comparative genomic hybridization profiles show redundant patterns similar to those seen in uveal melanoma, with gains in 6p and/or Sq, monosomy 3, and loss in 1p. Typical history is that of a long-standing, slowly enlarging pigmented lesion or recent change in a pigmented lesion. It can occur at any site, but the most common locations are the extremities, head and neck, and trunk. In addition to Caucasians, other ethnic groups such as Asians, Africans, Hispanics, and individuals of Middle East origin are often affected. Sentinel lymph node sampling reveals lymph node deposits in as many as 46% of patients. However, inconspicuous nested or lentiginous junctional component can be identified in 30% to 50% of cases. Most lesions have a wedge-shaped or nodular configuration and extend into deep dermis or subcutaneous tissue. The lesion is usually more cellular in the center of the lesion than at the periphery and base. The periphery usually has infiltrative border; however, some lesions appear relatively well circumscribed. They have abundant variably pigmented cytoplasm and vesicular nuclei with prominent nucleoli. Some large epithelioid cells are multinucleated and have less pigmented cytoplasm. Their nuclei can have large eosinophilic or basophilic nucleoli resembling nuclei of Reed-Sternberg cells. The large epitheloid cells often form small clusters and are easiest to find at the periphery of the lesion. In some lymph node metastases tumor cells can be difficult to identify among abundant melanophages. In addition to stromal location, metastases and associated melanophages can involve lymph node capsule and adjacent soft tissue. Based on advances in molecular genetics, the developmental biology of such lesions in many instances appears related to the acquisition of a second "genetic hit," usually a mutation, and neoplastic progression within a common nevus. The latter processes are often related because of depth, architecture, and the presence of pigmented cells that may be oval, elongate, epithelioid, spindled, or perhaps dendritic. They usually show 2 or more colors ranging from skin colored, reddish, brown to black and blue. Some patients report a sudden change in a long-standing nevus, such as color changes or increased growth that may raise the concern for melanoma. The ordinary nevus component is typically compound or dermal, and the blue nevus component of pigmented dendritic, spindled-shaped melanocytes is usually intermingled with the ordinary nevus component along with densely pigmented melanophages. The latter cells are often enlarged, contain abundant granular melanin, and are disposed in nests or fascicles in the deep portions ofor beneath the ordinary nevus, sometimes in a plexiform arrangement the sizes of the nests or fascicles may vary from minuscule to large lobular or digi. The Spitzoid component is typically grouped in a circumscribed area rather than scattered between the ordinary nevus cells. Along with pathological criteria, clinical information and molecular data may help to predict the biological behavior of atypical variants more accurately. Beginning in the second decade of life, affected individuals usually develop multiple inconspicuous, skincolored to reddish-brown, dome-shaped to pedunculated, well-circumscribed papules. The skin lesions develop predominantly in sun-exposed skin, and their number usually range from a few to more than 50. Some of these lesions display small areas of brown color at their periphery, likely because they evolve from ordinary nevi. It is likely that lesions with a higher grade of histopathologic atypia may have acquired additional genetic aberrations. The epithelioid cells show usually well-defined cytoplasmic borders, amphophilic cytoplasm, vesicular nuclei, and prominent nucleoli. Many of these lesions appear as combined melanocytic nevi with areas of small, oval melanocytes (ordinary nevus component) adjacent to the larger, epithelioid melanocytes. The round to oval nuclei are enlarged, slightly pleomorphic, and with vesicular chromatin and noticeable nucleoli. Histopathologic Features Melanocytic nevus with focal atypical epithelioid cell component Synonyms: Clonal nevus, inverted type-A nevus, nevus with dermal nodules. The histomorphology of melanocytic nevi with focal atypical epithelioid cell component is that of discrete nests of epithelioid cells, usually pigmented, within the dermal component of an ordinary nevus. However, the development of melanoma in the dermal component of a nevus is highly unusual. Although occasional aggregates of epithelioid cells are large, many are small and well circumscribed. The surrounding nevus, which commonly is of ordinary type, is generally unremarkable with reference to atypicality. An occasional mitosis may be observed in such a focus without undue concern; however, the presence of 2 or more mitoses per high-power field should prompt careful inspection for melanoma. Although combined nevi are heterogeneous, they tend to be present in fairly young individuals (younger than 40 years of age), measure less than 5 or 6 mm, and exhibit an overall symmetry and regular appearance. Neither does the plexiform nevus always extend as deeply as deep-penetrating nevus. They usually present as symmetrical, well-circumscribed, brown to bluish-black papules, sometimes with 2 or more colors. The differential diagnosis also includes plexiform spindle cell nevus, Spitz nevus, cellular blue nevus, and pigmented epithelioid melanocytoma (also called epithelioid blue nevus). Note the bulky wedge-shaped architecture and deep extension into subcutaneous fat.

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The first and second parts of the axillary artery are related to the cords; and third part is related to the branches of the plexus treatment 5th metatarsal shaft fracture cheap 20 mg celexa free shipping. Causes of injury: Undue separation of the head from the shoulder, which is commonly encountered in the following. Muscles paralysed: Mainly biceps brachii, deltoid, brachialis and brachioradialis. Vertebral artery and thyrocervical trunk with its branches, the suprascapular and transverse cervical arteries, supply blood to the brachial plexus. Cause of injury: Undue abduction of the arm, as in clutching something with the hands after a fall from a height, or sometimes in birth injury. Deformity and position of the hand: Claw hand due to the unopposed action of the long flexors and extensors of the fingers. In a claw hand, there is hyperextension at the metacarpophalangeal joints and flexion at the interphalangeal joints. It is also drier due to the absence of sweating as there is loss of sympathetic activity. Injury to the Nerve to Serratus Anterior (Nerve of Bell) Causes: 1 Sudden pressure on the shoulder from above. Normally, the pull of the muscle keeps the medial border against the thoracic wall. Lateral pectoral nerve only goes through Pectoralis major, but Medial pectoral nerve goes through both Pectoralis major and minor. Ventral ramus of cervical six segment of spinal cord these two rami join to form the upper trunk. Posterior division of upper trunk these divisions give fibres to deltoid, brachialis, biceps brachii, supinator, so the arm cannot be abducted. An account of the current state-of-the-art practice of diagnosis and management of surgical lesions of the peripheral nerves, including the brachial plexus. Distribution of the sympathetic rami to the brachial plexus: its relation to sympathectomy affecting the upper extremity. A description of the significant number of individuals in whom the intrathoracic somatic branches from the second thoracic spinal nerve join the first thoracic spinal nerve. Describe the axillary artery under following headings: Beginning, course and branches. Although it is thickly covered by muscles, most of its outline can be felt in the living subject. The crest of the spine of the scapula runs from the acromion process medially and slightly downwards to the medial border of the scapula. The lower ribs can be identified on the back by counting down from the eighth rib. The posterior superior iliac spine is felt in a shallow dimple above the buttock, about 5 cm from the median plane. Higher up on the back of the neck, the second cervical spine can be felt about 5 cm below the external occipital protuberance. Other spines that can be recognised are T3 at the level of root of the spine of the scapula, L4 at the level of the highest point of the iliac crest, and S2 at the level of the posterior superior iliac spine. The external occipital protuberance is a bony projection felt in the median plane on the back of the head at the upper end of the nuchal furrow (running vertically on the back of the neck). The superior nuchal lines are indistinct curved ridges which extend on either side from the protuberance to the mastoid process. The nuchal furrow extends to the external occipital protuberance above and to the spine of C7 below. Therefore, the skin and fasciae of the back are adapted to sustain pressure of the body weight. Accordingly, the skin is thick and fixed to the underlying fasciae; the superficial fascia containing variable amount of fat, is thick and strong and is connected to overlying skin by connective tissue; and the deep fascia is dense in texture. Cutaneous Nerves the cutaneous nerves of the back are derived from the posterior primary rami of the spinal nerves. In the upper half of the body (up to T6), the medial branches, and in the lower half of the body (below T6) the lateral branches, of the posterior primary rami provide the cutaneous branches. Draw a line in the midline from the protuberance to the spine of the last thoracic (T12) vertebra (ii). Extend the incision from its lower end to the deltoid tuberosity (iii) on the humerus which is present on lateral surface about the middle of the arm. Make another incision along a horizontal line from seventh cervical spine-vertebra prominens (iv) to the acromion process of scapula (v). Look for the suprascapular vessels and nerve, deep to trapezius muscle, towards the scapular notch. Cut through levator scapulae muscle midway between its two attachments and clean the dorsal scapular nerve (supplying the rhomboids) and accompanying blood vessels. Both of them develop from branchial arch mesoderm and are supplied by the spinal accessory nerve. Clinically, the muscle is tested by asking the patient to shrug his shoulder against resistance. Structures under Cover of the Trapezius 8 Infraspinatus 9 Latissimus dorsi 10 Serratus posterior superior B. Bursa: A bursa lies over the smooth triangular area at the root of the spine of the scapula. Latissimus Dorsi A large number of structures lies immediately under cover of the trapezius. Thereafter, it migrates to its wide attachment on the trunk, taking its nerve supply (thoracodorsal nerve) along with it (latus = wide). After completing the dissection of the back, the limb with clavicle and scapula is detached from the trunk. Triangle of Auscultation Lumbar Triangle of Petit Lumbar triangle of Petit is another small triangle surrounded by muscles. It is bounded medially by the Section Triangle of auscultation is a small triangular interval bounded medially by the lateral border of the trapezius, laterally by the medial border of the scapula, and inferiorly by the upper border of the latissimus dorsi. Respiratory sounds of apex of lower lobe heard through a stethoscope are better heard over this triangle on each side. Dorsoscapularis triangularis: Embryological and phylogenetic characterization of a rare variation of Trapezius. Boundaries of triangle of auscultation are not formed by one of the following structures: a. The greater tubercle of the humerus forms the most lateral bony point of the shoulder. The upper lateral cutaneous nerve of the arm, over the lower half of the deltoid c. The subscapularis, supraspinatus and infraspinatus fasciae provide origin to a part of the respective muscle. For a proper understanding of the region, revise some features of the scapula and the upper end of the humerus. The upper half of the humerus is covered on its anterior, lateral and posterior aspects by the deltoid muscle. The muscle passes as a tendon laterally beneath coracoacromial arch to blend with the capsule of shoulder joint. Both supraspinatus and deltoid are involved in initiation of abduction and continuation of abduction. Many fibres arise from four septa of origin that are attached above to the acromion process. Insertion the deltoid tuberosity of the humerus where three septa of insertion are attached.

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A medicine 60 purchase celexa 20mg online, Different classes of lymphocytes in the adaptive immune system recognize distinct types of antigens and differentiate into effector cells whose function is to eliminate the antigens. B lymphocytes recognize soluble or microbial surface antigens and differentiate into antibody-secreting cells called plasma cells. Helper T cells recognize these peptides displayed on the surface of macrophages or other antigen presenting cells, and secrete cytokines that stimulate different mechanisms of immunity and inflammation. Cytotoxic T lymphocytes recognize peptides displayed by any type of infected cell type (or tumor cell), and kill these cells. Regulatory T cells limit the activation of other lymphocytes, especially of T cells, and prevent autoimmunity. Not included are T cells, natural killer cells and other innate lymphoid cells, which are discussed in Chapter 2. B cells express membrane-bound antibodies that serve as the receptors that recognize antigens and initiate the process of activation of the cells. Soluble antigens and antigens on the surface of microbes and other cells may bind to these B lymphocyte antigen receptors, resulting in the proliferation and differentiation of the antigen-specific B cells. This leads to the secretion of soluble forms of antibodies with the same antigen specificity as the membrane receptors. These cells reside in and circulate between peripheral lymphoid organs and survive for several months up to a few years, waiting to find and respond to antigen. If they are not activated by antigen, naive lymphocytes die by the process of apoptosis and are replaced by new cells that have arisen in the generative lymphoid organs. The differentiation of naive lymphocytes into effector cells and memory cells is initiated by antigen recognition, thus ensuring that the immune response that develops is specific for the antigen that is recognized. The effector cells in the B lymphocyte lineage are antibody-secreting cells, called plasma cells. Plasma cells develop in response to antigenic stimulation in the peripheral T lymphocytes are responsible for cell-mediated immunity. B lymphocytes mature in the bone marrow, and T lymphocytes mature in an organ called the thymus. These sites in which mature lymphocytes are produced (generated) are called the generative (or central) lymphoid organs. Mature lymphocytes leave the generative lymphoid organs and enter the circulation and peripheral (secondary) lymphoid organs, which are the major site of immune responses where lymphocytes encounter antigens and are activated. Lymphocytes develop from precursors in the generative lymphoid organs (bone marrow and thymus). Mature lymphocytes enter the peripheral lymphoid organs, where they respond to foreign antigens and recirculate in the blood and lymph. Some immature B cells leave the bone marrow and complete their maturation in the spleen (not shown). A, Naive lymphocytes recognize foreign antigens to initiate adaptive immune responses. Naive lymphocytes need signals in addition to antigens to proliferate and differentiate into effector cells; these additional signals are not shown. The effector cells of the B lymphocyte lineage are antibody-secreting plasma cells (some of which are long lived). B, the important characteristics of naive, effector, and memory cells in the B and T lymphocyte lineages are summarized. The generation and functions of effector cells, including changes in migration patterns and types of immunoglobulin produced, are described in later chapters. Memory cells are functionally inactive; they do not perform effector functions unless stimulated by antigen. When memory cells encounter the same antigen that induced their development, the cells rapidly respond to initiate secondary immune responses. The signals that generate and maintain memory cells are not well understood but include cytokines. Small numbers of antibody-secreting cells are also found in the blood; these are called plasmablasts. Some of these migrate to the bone marrow, where they mature into long-lived plasma cells and continue to produce antibody years after the infection is eradicated, providing immediate protection in case the infection recurs. The development and functions of these effector cells are also discussed in later chapters. Therefore the frequency of memory cells increases with age, presumably because of exposure to environmental microbes. These are the first steps in the development of adaptive immune responses against antigens. Dendritic cells capture protein antigens of microbes that cross epithelial barriers and transport these antigens to regional lymph nodes, where they display fragments of the proteins for recognition by T lymphocytes. If a microbe has invaded through the epithelium, it may be phagocytosed and presented by tissue macrophages. Microbes or their antigens that enter lymphoid organs may be captured by dendritic cells or macrophages that reside in these organs and presented to lymphocytes. Dendritic cells have another important feature that gives them the ability to stimulate T cell responses. These specialized cells respond to microbes by producing surface proteins, called costimulators, which are required, together with antigen, to activate naive T lymphocytes to proliferate and differentiate into effector cells. Dendritic cells express higher levels of these costimulatory proteins than do other cell types and are thus the most potent stimulators of naive T cells and the most efficient initiators of T cell responses. Other antigen-presentingcells, such as macrophages and B cells, present antigens to differentiated effector T cells in various immune responses. B lymphocytes may directly recognize the antigens of microbes (either released or on the surface of the microbes), and macrophages and dendritic cells in peripheral lymphoid organs may also capture antigens and display them to B cells. The proportions of naive and memory T cells are based on data from multiple healthy individuals. However, as we discuss later, lymphocytes are unique among the cells of the body because of their ability to recirculate, repeatedly going through the blood to visit every secondary lymphoid organ in the body. The generative (also called primary or central) lymphoid organs are described in Chapter 4, when we discuss the process of lymphocyte maturation. The following section highlights some of the features of peripheral (or secondary) lymphoid organs that are important for the development of adaptive immunity. Approximate numbers of lymphocytes in different organs of healthy adults are shown. The peripheral lymphoid organs and tissues, which consist of the lymph nodes, the spleen, and the mucosal and cutaneous immune systems, are organized in a way that promotes the development of adaptive immune responses. T and B lymphocytes must locate microbes that enter at any site in the body, then respond to these microbes and eliminate them. This organization is complemented by a remarkable ability of lymphocytes to circulate throughout the body in such a way that naive lymphocytes preferentially go to the peripheral lymphoid organs and tissues, in which antigen is concentrated, whereas most effector cells go to sites of infection where microbes must be eliminated. Furthermore, different types of lymphocytes often need to communicate to generate effective immune responses. For example, within peripheral lymphoid organs, helper T cells specific for an antigen interact with and help B lymphocytes specific for the same antigen, resulting in antibody production. An important function of lymphoid organs is to bring these rare cells together after stimulation by antigen so they interact when they need to . The major peripheral lymphoid organs share many characteristics but also have some unique features. Fluid constantly leaks out of small blood vessels in all epithelia and connective tissues and most parenchymal organs. This fluid, called lymph, is drained by lymphatic vessels from the tissues to the lymph nodes and eventually back into the blood circulation. Therefore the lymph contains a mixture of substances absorbed from epithelia and tissues. In addition, dendritic cells pick up antigens of microbes from epithelia and other tissues and transport these antigens to the lymph nodes. The net result of these processes of antigen capture and transport is that the antigens of microbes entering through epithelia or colonizing tissues become concentrated in draining lymph nodes. The marginal zone with its sinus is the indistinct boundary between the white pulp and the red pulp. B, Light micrograph shows a cross section of a lymph node with numerous follicles in the cortex, some of which contain lightly stained central areas (germinal centers).