Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
anaplastic
Pronunciation: an-uh-PLAS-tik
Describing cells or tissue that lack normal cellular organization and differentiation, indicating aggressive behavior.
Full Definition
Anaplastic refers to cells that have lost their normal structural organization and differentiation, appearing primitive and undifferentiated under microscopic examination. In pediatric oncology, anaplastic features are particularly important in tumors like Wilms tumor and medulloepithelioma, where the presence of anaplasia significantly worsens prognosis and changes treatment approach. Anaplastic cells typically show increased nuclear size, irregular nuclear shape, and abnormal mitotic figures.
Usage
Usage note: Not to be confused with 'aplastic' which means absence of cell development.
In Context
- "The presence of anaplastic features upgraded the tumor to high-risk category." — pathology report
- "Anaplastic Wilms tumor requires more intensive chemotherapy than favorable histology." — treatment protocol
Also known as
undifferentiated
poorly differentiated
Contrasted with
well-differentiated
differentiated
Don't confuse with
aplastic
dysplastic