Adipocytes · Histology

Which of the following describes the characteristic appearance of a mature unilocular adipocyte in a standard H&E section?

  1. A small cell with multiple lipid droplets and a central nucleus.
  2. A stellate cell with numerous branching processes.
  3. A columnar cell with a basal nucleus, apical cilia, and a prominent terminal web and brush border.
  4. A large 'signet ring' cell with a single large lipid droplet and a peripheral nucleus.
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: A large 'signet ring' cell with a single large lipid droplet and a peripheral nucleus.

In white adipose tissue, the large lipid droplet displaces the cytoplasm and nucleus to the edge of the cell. This creates the classic 'signet ring' appearance where only a thin rim of cytoplasm is visible.

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