cytoplasmic inclusion
Abnormal protein aggregates within neuronal cell bodies that characterize various neurodegenerative diseases.
Full Definition
Cytoplasmic inclusions are pathological protein aggregates that accumulate within the cytoplasm of neurons, serving as hallmark features of specific neurodegenerative disorders. These inclusions contain misfolded proteins and can be identified through routine histological stains or specific immunohistochemical markers. Different types of cytoplasmic inclusions, such as Lewy bodies in Parkinson's disease or Pick bodies in frontotemporal dementia, provide crucial diagnostic information about the underlying disease process and help pathologists classify neurodegenerative conditions.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify the protein composition and staining characteristics when describing inclusions.
In Context
- "Multiple eosinophilic cytoplasmic inclusions were observed throughout the hippocampal pyramidal neurons." — Microscopic description
- "The cytoplasmic inclusions stained positive for ubiquitin and alpha-synuclein." — Immunohistochemical findings