Giant granadilla

Giant cells are a type of cell that are significantly larger than most other cells. They can be found in various parts of the body and are often associated with certain diseases and conditions.

Overview

Giant cells are formed by the fusion of macrophages, a type of white blood cell that engulfs and digests cellular debris, foreign substances, microbes, and cancer cells in a process called phagocytosis. This fusion results in a cell that has multiple nuclei, a characteristic feature of giant cells.

Types of Giant Cells

There are several types of giant cells, each with their own unique characteristics and associated conditions.

Langhans Giant Cells

Langhans giant cells are a type of giant cell that are often associated with tuberculosis and other mycobacterial infections. They are characterized by their horseshoe pattern of nuclei.

Touton Giant Cells

Touton giant cells are another type of giant cell that are typically associated with fat necrosis and certain types of tumors. They are characterized by their ring of nuclei surrounding a central area of foamy cytoplasm.

Foreign Body Giant Cells

Foreign body giant cells are a type of giant cell that form in response to foreign materials in the body. They are often seen in granulomas, which are collections of immune cells that form in response to chronic inflammation.

Clinical Significance

Giant cells play a significant role in various diseases and conditions. They are often a sign of chronic inflammation and can be seen in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, giant cell arteritis, and giant cell myocarditis. In addition, they are often present in granulomas, which are a hallmark of diseases such as tuberculosis and sarcoidosis.

See Also

• Macrophage
• Granuloma
• Tuberculosis
• Sarcoidosis