1. Graft Integration: One of the primary goals is to assess how well the transplanted tissue integrates with the host tissue. Successful integration is indicated by minimal inflammation and a seamless connection between donor and recipient tissues.
2. Immune Response: Histologists look for signs of the recipient's immune system attacking the graft. This can be seen as infiltration of immune cells such as lymphocytes and macrophages into the donor tissue.
3. Graft-versus-Host Disease (GVHD): In bone marrow or stem cell transplants, histological examination is vital for diagnosing GVHD. This condition occurs when donor immune cells attack the recipient's tissues, often affecting the skin, liver, and gastrointestinal tract.
