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anaplastic
Pronunciation: an-uh-PLAS-tik
Descriptive term for poorly differentiated, highly malignant tumors lacking normal tissue structure.
Full Definition
Anaplastic refers to the morphological appearance of highly malignant tumors characterized by loss of cellular differentiation and tissue organization. Anaplastic tumors typically exhibit marked cellular and nuclear pleomorphism, high mitotic activity, necrosis, and loss of normal architectural patterns. The cells often appear primitive and undifferentiated, lacking the specialized features of their tissue of origin. This term is commonly used in tumor grading systems and indicates aggressive biological behavior with poor prognosis.
Usage
Usage note: Always indicates high-grade malignancy in pathological contexts.
In Context
- "The biopsy revealed anaplastic carcinoma with extensive necrosis." — Pathology report
- "Anaplastic features correlated with worse overall survival." — Clinical study
Also known as
undifferentiated
poorly differentiated
Contrasted with
well-differentiated
differentiated
Don't confuse with
dysplastic
hyperplastic