What are Common Histological Features of Liver Disease?
Histological examination of liver tissue can reveal several common features associated with liver disease. These include:
- Steatosis: Also known as fatty liver, steatosis is characterized by the accumulation of lipid droplets within hepatocytes. - Inflammation: The presence of inflammatory cells, such as lymphocytes and macrophages, is a common feature in liver diseases like hepatitis. - Fibrosis: Fibrosis refers to the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix proteins, leading to scar tissue formation. - Cirrhosis: This is the end stage of chronic liver disease, marked by extensive fibrosis and the formation of regenerative nodules. - Necrosis and Apoptosis: Liver cell death can occur via necrosis or apoptosis, with different morphological characteristics observed under the microscope.
