Clearcell

Clearcell is a term used in pathology and oncology, primarily to describe a specific histological subtype of a tumor where the cells have a distinct appearance under the microscope. The cytoplasm of these cells appears clear or empty due to the presence of glycogen and lipids that are dissolved during the standard tissue processing and staining procedure.

This cellular feature is most famously associated with renal cell carcinoma, where clear cell renal cell carcinoma is the most common form of kidney cancer. The clear appearance is a result of the cells' high glycogen and fat content. The term can also apply to other neoplasms, such as clear cell sarcoma, which is a rare soft tissue tumor, and clear cell adenocarcinoma, which can occur in organs like the ovary.

The identification of clear cell morphology is a critical diagnostic step for pathologists. It helps classify the tumor, which in turn guides treatment decisions and provides information about the likely prognosis. For instance, clear cell renal cell carcinoma has distinct genetic alterations, such as the loss of the VHL gene, which differentiates it from other kidney cancer subtypes. While the clear cell appearance is a key diagnostic feature, it is often evaluated alongside other cellular characteristics and molecular tests to ensure an accurate diagnosis. The behavior of clear cell tumors can vary significantly depending on their origin and other pathological factors.