Pathology · Multiple Systems · Hard
Pyknosis
Meaning: Shrinkage and darkening of a cell nucleus as chromatin condenses, an early sign of cell death.
In practice: Under the microscope, the dying cells showed pyknosis with small, dense nuclei.
Word parts
- -osis means an abnormal condition or process
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: Genus of Gram-negative gut bacteria, the most common cause of urinary tract infections.
Answer: Escherichia
Which word means: State in which the body's defence system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues.
Answer: Autoimmunity
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