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[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
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