Cell differentiation: Describes how closely tumor cells resemble their tissue of origin under the microscope.
- Well-differentiation • cells look/function like normal tissue, usually slower growth, better prognosis.
- Poorly/undifferentiated → cells look abnormal, rapidly dividing, aggressive behavior, worse prognosis.
For oncology pharmacists: Differentiation helps guide prognosis, treatment intensity, and drug responsiveness (e.g., poorly differentiated tumors often need more aggressive systemic therapy).
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