Definition

A condition where the nucleus of a cell becomes more concentrated and stains darker than normal, often indicating cell damage or death.

Example

The pathologist noted pycnosis in the tissue samples, suggesting cell injury.

Conversation

Have you heard about the term pycnosis?

Yeah, it's related to cell changes, right?

Exactly! It means the nucleus gets thicker and stains more.

That's interesting; I didn't know it could be a precursor to necrosis.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pycnosis is formed from "pycnos" (from Greek, meaning dense or thick) and the suffix "-osis" (meaning a condition or process). The term refers to a condition characterized by the thickening or condensation of the cell nucleus, often seen in pathological states.

Memory Tip

Think of 'dense' or 'thick' ('pycnos') to remember that 'pycnosis' refers to a condition where the cell nucleus becomes thickened.

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