perinuclear clearing
Clear space around the nucleus in neurons or other cells. May indicate artifact, viral infection, or specific pathological inclusions.
Full Definition
Perinuclear clearing refers to a clear, often unstained space that surrounds the cell nucleus, creating a distinct halo-like appearance in tissue sections. This finding can result from various causes including fixation artifacts, viral infections, or the presence of specific pathological inclusions. In neuropathology, perinuclear clearing may be observed in viral inclusions such as those seen in cytomegalovirus infection, where it represents displacement of organelles by viral replication complexes. It can also be an artifact of tissue processing, particularly in cases of delayed fixation or osmotic imbalance. Careful correlation with clinical context and additional staining is essential to distinguish pathological perinuclear clearing from processing artifacts.
Usage
Usage note: Must distinguish pathological from artifactual causes.
In Context
- "The infected neurons showed characteristic perinuclear clearing containing viral inclusions." — CMV encephalitis diagnosis
- "Perinuclear clearing was noted but determined to be a fixation artifact rather than pathological change." — Quality control review