pleomorphism

pleomorphismPleomorphism in a micrograph depicting histopathologic changes found in a Kaposi sarcoma lesion. Pleomorphism is evident in the variations in cellular staining qualities and in the varying sizes of cell nuclei, some of which are atypical and indicative of malignant disease.

pleomorphism, the existence of irregular and variant forms in the same species or strain of microorganisms, a condition analogous to polymorphism in higher organisms. Pleomorphism is particularly prevalent in certain groups of bacteria and in yeasts, rickettsias, and mycoplasmas and greatly complicates the task of identifying and studying them.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Amy Tikkanen.
Citation Information
Article Title: pleomorphism
Website Name: Encyclopaedia Britannica
Publisher: Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc.
Date Published: 15 November 2018
Access Date: February 22, 2025