Neoplasia and Cancer Biology · USMLE Step 1

Which of the following features is characteristic of anaplasia in malignant tumors?

  1. Uniform cell size and shape
  2. Regular, small nuclei with evenly distributed chromatin
  3. Prominent nuclear pleomorphism and hyperchromasia
  4. Low mitotic activity
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: Prominent nuclear pleomorphism and hyperchromasia

Anaplastic malignant tumors often show marked pleomorphism (variation in cell and nuclear size/shape), hyperchromatic and irregular nuclei — indicating loss of differentiation.

Difficulty: Medium Question 6 of 20

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