Mitotic index

Mitotic index is a measure used in oncology and pathology to determine the growth fraction of a cell population. It is calculated by dividing the number of cells in mitosis by the total number of cells. The mitotic index can be used to predict the aggressiveness of a cancer, with a higher index indicating a more aggressive cancer.

Calculation

The mitotic index is calculated by counting the number of cells in mitosis and dividing by the total number of cells. This can be done manually using a microscope, or automatically using a flow cytometer. The result is usually expressed as a percentage.

Use in oncology

In oncology, the mitotic index is used to predict the aggressiveness of a cancer. A higher index indicates a more aggressive cancer, which is more likely to spread and less likely to respond to treatment. The mitotic index is one of several factors used to determine the grade of a cancer.

Use in pathology

In pathology, the mitotic index is used to assess the growth fraction of a cell population. This can be useful in determining the prognosis of a disease, as a higher growth fraction indicates a more aggressive disease.

See also

• Cell cycle
• Cell division
• Cancer staging
• Cancer grading