General and Systemic Histopathology, C601&C602
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In this case, we're
looking for a thin band of homogeneous, pink staining, proteinaceous material
on the epicardial surface of the heart. This represents an exudate
composed largely of protein material. You will see very few inflammatory
cells. See this slide with the virtual microscope. |
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This exudate is almost totally devoid of inflammatory cells, and consists almost totally of protein (fibrin plus other trash). It looks the way I think "tofu" would look if sectioned and stained. This "exudate" is a product of renal failure, is completely sterile, and occurs secondary to the crystallization of nitrogenous wastes on the epicardial and pericardial surfaces. This is a consequence of many forms of long term kidney disease that eventuate in renal failure. |