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Histopathology basics · USMLE Step 1

In the context of histopathology, what does the term “basophilic” (or basophilia) refer to when describing cell components?

  1. Structures that stain readily with acidic dyes like eosin
  2. Structures that bind basic dyes like hematoxylin, e.g., nuclei
  3. Structures rich in cytoplasmic lipids
  4. Structures undergoing necrotic change
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Correct answer: Structures that bind basic dyes like hematoxylin, e.g., nuclei

“Basophilic” describes tissue or cellular structures that bind basic dyes such as hematoxylin — typically negatively charged structures like nucleic acids in nuclei or ribosomes. This term helps describe staining affinity in routine histology.

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