Epithelioid cells

Epithelioid cells are a type of cell that are part of the immune system. They are derived from macrophages, a type of white blood cell that engulfs and digests cellular debris, foreign substances, microbes, and cancer cells in a process called phagocytosis.

Characteristics

Epithelioid cells are characterized by their epithelium-like appearance, with a large, round shape and a centrally located nucleus. They are typically found in granulomas, which are collections of immune cells that form at sites of infection or inflammation.

Function

The primary function of epithelioid cells is to present antigens to T-cells, a type of white blood cell that plays a key role in the immune response. This antigen presentation is a crucial step in the immune response, as it allows the T-cells to recognize and attack the foreign substance or infected cell.

Clinical significance

Epithelioid cells are often seen in certain types of inflammatory diseases, such as tuberculosis and sarcoidosis. In these conditions, the presence of epithelioid cells can be a sign of an ongoing immune response. They are also seen in certain types of cancer, such as melanoma, where they can be a sign of the body's attempt to fight the cancer.

See also

• Macrophage
• Granuloma
• Antigen presentation
• T-cell
• Tuberculosis
• Sarcoidosis
• Melanoma

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