What is Lacunosity? Understanding This Key Diagnostic Feature in Neurodegenerative Diseases

Lacunosity is a term used in pathology to describe the presence of small, cystic spaces or cavities within tissue. These spaces are typically filled with air or fluid and can be seen on microscopic examination of tissue samples.

Lacunosity can occur in a variety of tissues, including the brain, liver, kidneys, and lungs. It is often associated with inflammation or infection, and can be a sign of underlying disease. For example, lacunosity is commonly seen in the brains of people with multiple sclerosis, and in the livers of people with hepatitis.

In the context of neurodegenerative diseases, lacunosity can be an important diagnostic feature. For example, in Alzheimer's disease, lacunosity is often seen in the hippocampus and other areas of the brain, and is thought to be related to the loss of neurons and the formation of amyloid plaques. In Parkinson's disease, lacunosity is typically seen in the substantia nigra and other areas of the brain, and is thought to be related to the death of dopamine-producing neurons.

Overall, lacunosity is a useful diagnostic feature that can help pathologists identify and characterize various neurodegenerative diseases.