What cellular changes may suggest a viral infection?

The presence of atypical nuclear features and inclusions is a strong indicator of viral infection in cells. Viral infections often lead to significant cellular changes. Specifically, these atypical nuclear features can include enlarged nuclei, irregular nuclear contours, or hyperchromatic nuclei (which have increased staining due to DNA alterations). Inclusions, which are abnormal structures within the nucleus or cytoplasm, may be viral particles or aggregates of viral proteins and indicate active viral replication within the cell.

Cells infected with viruses frequently exhibit these abnormalities as the virus disrupts normal cellular function and morphology. The detection of such features is crucial in cytology for diagnosing viral infections, as these changes are not typically observed in healthy cells. The presence of inclusions and atypical features can aid clinicians in confirming a viral diagnosis in various tissues and fluids.