Langhans giant cell

Langhans giant cell (pronunciation: lang-hanz jai-ant sel) is a type of multinucleated giant cell that is found in granulomas, which are inflammatory nodules often associated with certain diseases such as tuberculosis and sarcoidosis.

Etymology

The term "Langhans" is named after Theodor Langhans, a German pathologist who first described these cells in 1868. The term "giant cell" refers to the large size of these cells, which is due to the fusion of several macrophages, a type of white blood cell.

Characteristics

Langhans giant cells are characterized by having the nuclei arranged in a horseshoe pattern at the periphery of the cell. This is in contrast to other types of giant cells, such as foreign body giant cells, where the nuclei are scattered throughout the cell. Langhans giant cells are typically found in granulomas, which are collections of immune cells that form in response to chronic inflammation.

Associated Conditions

Langhans giant cells are most commonly associated with tuberculosis, a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. They can also be found in other granulomatous diseases such as sarcoidosis, leprosy, and Crohn's disease. The presence of Langhans giant cells in a tissue sample can help in the diagnosis of these conditions.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Langhans giant cell
Wikipedia's article - Langhans giant cell

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Langhans giant cell