How Do You Spell EPITHELIAL PEARL?

1. An epithelial pearl refers to a small, rounded structure that is composed of cells arranged in concentric layers, resembling a pearl. This unique structure is commonly found in various tissues of the body, particularly in epithelial tissues. Epithelium refers to a type of tissue that lines the surfaces of organs and body cavities, serving as a protective barrier. It is primarily composed of cells that are tightly packed together.

   Epithelial pearls are most frequently observed in certain types of tumors, such as squamous cell carcinomas, particularly in the skin and oral cavity. They are characterized by a central core made up of keratin-filled cells, surrounded by layers of proliferating epithelial cells. The keratin-filled cells impart a pearly appearance to the structure, giving rise to its name.

   Often, epithelial pearls are considered a histological feature used in the diagnosis of tumors, aiding in the differentiation of malignant lesions from benign ones. Their presence in a tumor sample is indicative of a higher grade or aggressive form of cancer, highlighting the potential for further invasion and metastasis.

   Understanding the significance of epithelial pearls helps pathologists and clinicians to determine the prognosis of a patient and devise appropriate treatment strategies. In certain cases, the presence of epithelial pearls may guide the decision-making process regarding surgical intervention or the administration of targeted therapies.

2. A mass of concentric squamous epithelial cells, of hyaline appearance, occurring in carcinoma; epithelial nest.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for EPITHELIAL PEARL

The word "epithelial" comes from the Greek word "epithelioma" meaning "a growth upon the skin". It is derived from the Greek words "epi", meaning "upon", and "thelē", meaning "nipple" or "teat".

The word "pearl" comes from the Old English "pearl" or "perle", which is ultimately derived from the Latin word "perna", meaning "leg", or "ham". In Latin, "perla" was used to refer to a sea mollusk shell, and it later developed the specific meaning of the round, lustrous gemstone.

The term "epithelial pearl" combines the word "epithelial", which refers to tissues covering the surfaces of organs and cavities in the body, with "pearl" to describe a rounded structure formed by epithelial tissue.