enterochromaffin cell
Pronunciation: en-ter-oh-KROH-maf-in
Specialized neuroendocrine cells in the gastrointestinal tract that produce serotonin and other hormones.
Full Definition
Enterochromaffin (EC) cells are specialized neuroendocrine cells distributed throughout the gastrointestinal tract, representing the most numerous type of enteroendocrine cell in the body. These cells produce and secrete serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine) along with other bioactive substances including substance P and chromogranin A. EC cells play important roles in gut motility, secretion, and sensation through their hormone production. They are the cell of origin for most small intestinal neuroendocrine tumors (carcinoids), particularly those arising in the terminal ileum. When these cells become neoplastic, they often retain their secretory function, leading to carcinoid syndrome when tumor burden is sufficient and drainage bypasses hepatic metabolism. EC cells can be identified histologically through specific immunohistochemical staining patterns.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from enterochromaffin-like (ECL) cells, which are found in gastric mucosa.
In Context
- "The small bowel NET showed strong positivity for serotonin, confirming enterochromaffin cell origin." — Pathology report
- "Hyperplasia of enterochromaffin cells was noted in the terminal ileum adjacent to the carcinoid tumor." — Histopathology description