IPLab:Lab 9:Diphtheria

Images

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  This is a low-power photomicrograph of the trachea with the diphtheritic membrane (1), which has pulled away from the tracheal lining during histological processing. Note the tracheal cartilage (2) present in this section.

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  This is a higher-power photomicrograph of trachea with the diphtheritic membrane (1). Even though, the main part of the membrane has pulled away from the tracheal lining during histological processing, in this section part of the membrane is still loosely attached. Once again, note the tracheal cartilage (2).

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  This is an even higher-power photomicrograph of the tracheal mucosa and the diphtheritic membrane. The mucosal surface of the trachea is ulcerated (total loss of epithelial cells) and the only remaining epithelial cells are found in the glands (arrows). The diphtheritic membrane consists of fibrin and inflammatory cells, most of which are dead.

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  In this higher-power photomicrograph of the tissue from the previous image, the ulcerated tracheal mucosa and the diphtheritic membrane are more clearly seen. Although difficult to make out at this magnification, most of the cells in this inflammatory exudate are neutrophils.