Choristoma
Choristoma
Choristoma (pronunciation: /kɔːˈrɪstəmə/) is a medical term that refers to a mass of histologically normal cells or tissues that appear in places in the body where they are not normally found.
Etymology
The term "Choristoma" is derived from the Greek words "choristos" meaning separated and "oma" meaning tumor. Despite the "oma" suffix, a choristoma is not a true tumor, but rather a type of hamartoma, which is a benign, focal malformation that resembles a neoplasm in the tissue of its origin.
Definition
A Choristoma is a type of hamartoma, which is a benign, non-neoplastic mass composed of an overgrowth of mature cells and tissues normally present in the affected part, but with disorganization and often with one element predominating. Unlike a hamartoma, however, a choristoma consists of normal cells and tissues located in areas of the body where they are not typically found.
Clinical Significance
Choristomas are generally benign and often asymptomatic, but they can cause problems depending on their size and location. For example, a choristoma located in the eye can cause vision problems, while a choristoma in the ear can lead to hearing loss. Treatment typically involves surgical removal of the choristoma.
Related Terms
- Hamartoma: A benign, focal malformation that resembles a neoplasm in the tissue of its origin.
- Heterotopia: The displacement of an organ or other body part to an abnormal location.
- Teratoma: A type of tumor that contains different types of tissue, such as hair, muscle, or bone.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Choristoma
- Wikipedia's article - Choristoma
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