In histology, malignancy is identified through various microscopic features. These include:
1. Cellular Atypia: Malignant cells often exhibit abnormal size, shape, and organization. They may have large, irregular nuclei and increased nuclear-to-cytoplasmic ratios. 2. Increased Mitoses: The presence of numerous mitotic figures indicates rapid cell division, a hallmark of cancer. 3. Loss of Tissue Architecture: Malignant tissues often lose their normal structural organization. 4. Invasion: Malignant cells can invade surrounding tissues, breaking through the basement membrane. 5. Necrosis: Areas of cell death within the tumor mass are common in malignancies.