Langhans giant cells, also known as Langhans cells or Langhans multinucleated giant cells, are a type of giant cells that are commonly observed in certain pathological conditions. These cells are named after Theodor Langhans, the German pathologist who first described them in the 19th century.
Langhans giant cells are large, multinucleated cells that typically exhibit a circular or horseshoe-shaped arrangement of nuclei along the periphery of the cell. The nuclei are arranged in a characteristic pattern, resembling a wreath or a horse's saddle, which is referred to as "picket fence" or "palisade" arrangement. These cells are often found in various chronic infectious and inflammatory diseases, as well as in certain neoplastic conditions.
The formation of Langhans giant cells is believed to be a result of the fusion of macrophages or histiocytes. Macrophages are immune cells responsible for engulfing and destroying foreign substances or pathogens. In the presence of certain stimuli, such as persistent infections or certain foreign bodies, these macrophages fuse together to form multinucleated giant cells.
Langhans giant cells can be seen in various disease processes, such as tuberculosis, sarcoidosis, foreign body granulomas, certain fungal infections, and autoimmune diseases. Their presence is often indicative of an ongoing inflammatory response and can be used as a diagnostic feature in some pathological conditions.
In summary, Langhans giant cells are large, multinucleated cells with a characteristic arrangement of nuclei along the periphery of the cell. They are commonly seen in chronic infections, inflammatory conditions, and some neoplastic diseases. Their presence can aid in the diagnosis of certain diseases and signifies an ongoing immune response.
