Transitional Cells

Transitional cells (red arrow) are round cells of variable size that possess a small central nucleus. They are larger than leukocytes (black arrow) although they also have a granular cytoplasm. Transitional cells can normally be found in the urine sediment. However, they will exfoliate in larger numbers when a irritating process such as inflammation occurs. A transitional cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder cannot always be readily diagnosed based on urinary sediment analysis. However, when this tumour is suspected, urinary cytology may be performed.

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