Koilocyte

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Koilocyte

Koilocyte (pronounced: koy-lo-site) is a type of cell that is often associated with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) infections. The term "koilocyte" is derived from the Greek words "koilos," meaning hollow, and "kytos," meaning cell.

Definition

A koilocyte is a squamous epithelial cell that has undergone structural changes as a result of infection with certain types of HPV. These changes include a perinuclear halo and a thickened, irregular nuclear membrane.

Significance

The presence of koilocytes is a key diagnostic feature of HPV infection, particularly those types associated with cervical dysplasia and cervical cancer. However, their presence alone is not sufficient for a diagnosis, as they can also be seen in other conditions.

Related Terms

  • Squamous epithelial cell: A type of cell that makes up the outer layer of the skin and some internal organs.
  • Perinuclear halo: A clear area surrounding the nucleus of a cell, often seen in koilocytes.
  • Cervical dysplasia: A precancerous condition in which abnormal cell growth occurs on the surface lining of the cervix.
  • Cervical cancer: A type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix, often associated with HPV infection.

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