Mitotic index

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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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

Mitotic index Resources
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Contributors: Bonnu, Prab R. Tumpati, MD