Pituitary Gland Under The Light Microscopic Sturcture
Identifying a pituitary gland histology slide under a light microscope involves observing various structural features that distinguish the anterior and posterior lobes. Here are the key identification points:
Anterior Pituitary (Adenohypophysis)
1. Cell Types:
Acidophils: Stain pink/red with eosin. These cells secrete growth hormone (GH) and prolactin (PRL).
Basophils: Stain blue/purple with hematoxylin. These cells secrete thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).
Chromophobes: These cells have little to no staining and are often less distinct. They may represent degranulated acidophils or basophils or may be undifferentiated stem cells.
2. Arrangement:
Cells are arranged in clusters or cords, surrounded by a rich network of capillaries and sinusoids.
Posterior Pituitary (Neurohypophysis)
1. Nerve Fibers: Contains non-myelinated nerve fibers originating from the hypothalamus. These fibers store and release hormones like oxytocin and vasopressin (antidiuretic hormone, ADH).
2. Pituicytes: Specialized glial cells supporting the nerve fibers. They appear as small, darkly stained nuclei scattered among the nerve fibers.
3. Herring Bodies: These are accumulations of neurosecretory granules within the nerve fibers, appearing as eosinophilic (pink) spots.
Key Differences
Anterior Pituitary: Rich cellular composition with various cell types (acidophils, basophils, chromophobes) and a highly vascularized structure.
Posterior Pituitary: Dominated by nerve fibers and pituicytes, with fewer cells and distinct Herring bodies.
Microscopic Examination Tips
Use different staining techniques (e.g., Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E)) to differentiate cell types.
Look for the characteristic staining patterns of acidophils and basophils in the anterior pituitary.
Identify the less cellular, more fibrous structure of the posterior pituitary.
Written By: Ikrambaig
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