Ultrastructure of hepatocyte abnormalities in perimetastatic areas.

The ultrastructural pathology of non-invaded hepatocytes located in close proximity to metastases from diverse gastrointestinal carcinomas was studied. Observed abnormalities included swelling of rough and smooth endoplasmic reticulum, proliferation of lysosomes, and mitochondrial alterations as presence of granules and paracrystalline inclusions, marked pleomorphism, and lack of cristae. These results show that, contrary to the classical conception, the non-invaded cells surrounding primary tumours or their metastases could be abnormal.