What are Common Histological Findings in GI Disorders?
Several histological findings are commonly associated with gastrointestinal disturbances:
1. Inflammation: Inflammatory cells, such as lymphocytes, macrophages, and neutrophils, infiltrate the mucosa and submucosa. This is seen in conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. 2. Epithelial Changes: Dysplasia or abnormal growth of epithelial cells can be a precursor to cancer. For example, in Barrett's esophagus, the normal squamous epithelium is replaced by columnar epithelium. 3. Fibrosis: The excessive deposition of connective tissue, often seen in chronic conditions like liver cirrhosis. 4. Necrosis: Tissue death due to factors like ischemia or infections, observed in severe cases of conditions like ischemic colitis.
