Pathology · Multiple Systems · Hard
Hyperchromasia
Meaning: Abnormally dark staining of cell nuclei due to increased DNA content, often seen in cancer cells.
In practice: Hyperchromasia and enlarged nuclei raised concern for malignancy on cytology.
Word parts
- hyper- means above or more than normal
Many medical words are built from Greek and Latin parts like these, so learning a few helps you work out new terms.
Quick check
Two questions on related pathology words.
Which word means: Benign malformation of the vessels that drain tissue fluid, forming soft fluid-filled spaces.
Answer: Lymphangioma
Which word means: Highly contagious infectious agent that causes outbreaks of vomiting and diarrhoea, often called the winter vomiting bug.
Answer: Norovirus
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