Aschoff body
Pronunciation: ASH-off
Pathognomonic granulomatous lesion of rheumatic heart disease, consisting of central fibrinoid necrosis surrounded by inflammatory cells.
Full Definition
Aschoff bodies represent the characteristic and pathognomonic histologic lesion of acute rheumatic carditis, consisting of focal areas of fibrinoid necrosis surrounded by lymphocytes, plasma cells, and distinctive multinucleated giant cells called Aschoff cells or Anitschkow cells. These granulomatous lesions are typically found in the myocardium, particularly in the left atrial wall, ventricular septum, and around blood vessels. The presence of Aschoff bodies confirms the diagnosis of rheumatic heart disease and indicates active or recent acute rheumatic fever. These lesions eventually heal with fibrosis, contributing to the chronic valvular deformities characteristic of chronic rheumatic heart disease.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize as it is an eponym; essential for diagnosing rheumatic heart disease.
In Context
- "Microscopic examination revealed numerous Aschoff bodies in the left atrial myocardium, confirming acute rheumatic carditis." — Cardiac biopsy report
- "The presence of characteristic Aschoff bodies with Anitschkow cells established the diagnosis of rheumatic heart disease." — Autopsy report