Nest

Overview of the Nest, a medical concept

Overview

The term "Nest" in a medical context can refer to a cluster or group of cells that are similar in function and origin. These cell clusters can be found in various tissues and organs throughout the body and play significant roles in both normal physiology and pathological conditions.

Cellular Nests

In histology, a "nest" often describes a small, well-defined group of cells that are distinct from the surrounding tissue. These nests can be indicative of certain types of tumors or other pathological conditions. For example, nests of neuroendocrine cells can be found in neuroendocrine tumors, which are a type of cancer that arises from cells of the endocrine (hormonal) and nervous systems.

Characteristics

Cellular nests are typically characterized by their:

• Uniformity: The cells within a nest are often similar in appearance and function.
• Boundaries: Nests are usually well-circumscribed, meaning they have clear boundaries separating them from surrounding tissues.
• Functionality: The cells within a nest often share a common function, such as hormone production in the case of endocrine nests.

Pathological Nests

In pathology, the presence of nests can be a diagnostic feature. For instance, nests of melanocytes are a hallmark of melanoma, a type of skin cancer. Similarly, nests of squamous cells can be seen in squamous cell carcinoma.

Diagnosis

The identification of nests in tissue samples is often done through histopathology, where tissue is examined under a microscope. Special stains and markers may be used to highlight specific cell types within a nest.

Physiological Nests

Not all nests are pathological. In normal physiology, nests of cells can be found in various organs where they perform essential functions. For example, the islets of Langerhans in the pancreas are nests of endocrine cells that produce important hormones like insulin and glucagon.

Images

File:Histology slide showing a nest of cells.jpg

A histology slide showing a nest of cells.

File:Neuroendocrine tumor cells.jpg

Micrograph of a neuroendocrine tumor showing nests of cells.

Related pages

• Histology
• Tumor
• Endocrine system
• Neuroendocrine tumor
• Melanoma