Langhansféle

Langhansféle, also known as Langhans giant cells, are multinucleated giant cells found in certain pathological conditions, particularly granulomatous inflammation. These cells are named after the German pathologist Ernst Langhans, who first described them in the 19th century. They are characterized by their large size, typically measuring between 50 and 100 micrometers in diameter, and their distinctive appearance under a microscope, featuring multiple nuclei arranged in a horseshoe or ring-like pattern.

Langhans giant cells are most commonly associated with granulomatous diseases, such as tuberculosis, sarcoidosis, and certain fungal infections. In these conditions, they form as part of the immune response to chronic inflammation, often surrounding areas of infection or foreign material. The cells arise from the fusion of macrophages, which are a type of white blood cell involved in phagocytosis—the process of engulfing and digesting pathogens or cellular debris.

Histologically, Langhans giant cells can be distinguished from other types of giant cells, such as foreign body giant cells or Touton giant cells, by the arrangement of their nuclei. While foreign body giant cells typically have nuclei scattered throughout the cytoplasm, Langhans giant cells have nuclei positioned peripherally, creating a characteristic "soapy" or "horseshoe" appearance. This feature aids in their identification during microscopic examination of tissue biopsies.

The formation of Langhans giant cells is believed to be a response to persistent stimuli that cannot be fully eliminated by macrophages alone. Their presence in granulomatous inflammation suggests a role in containing and isolating the offending agent, although their exact function remains an area of ongoing research. In clinical practice, their identification in tissue samples can provide valuable diagnostic clues, particularly in differentiating granulomatous diseases from other inflammatory or infectious processes.