Intermediate
Technical
IVT
axonal spheroid
Swollen, rounded axonal segment containing accumulated organelles, indicating axonal injury or degeneration.
Full Definition
A pathological finding characterized by focal swelling of axons that appear as round to oval, eosinophilic structures on routine staining. These spheroids contain accumulated neurofilaments, mitochondria, and other organelles due to impaired axonal transport. They are commonly seen in traumatic brain injury, neurodegenerative diseases, and toxic neuropathies. The term is specific to the morphological appearance and should not be confused with other spherical structures in neuropathology.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify location and context when describing axonal spheroids in diagnostic reports.
In Context
- "Multiple axonal spheroids were identified in the white matter tract, consistent with diffuse axonal injury." — Forensic neuropathology report
- "Silver staining highlighted numerous axonal spheroids throughout the corpus callosum." — Research publication
Also known as
axonal bulb
axonal swelling
Don't confuse with
neuritic plaque
spherical inclusion