Final answer:
Skin tumors are histologically classified by examining a biopsy sample to determine its origin. Carcinomas, originating from epithelial cells, are one type, with further distinctions such as cell size and shape. Immunohistochemistry assists in diagnosis by identifying specific cell antigens.
Step-by-step explanation:
We classify skin tumors histologically by examining a tissue sample microscopically to determine the type of tissue from which the cancer originates. This involves a biopsy, where tissue is removed from the affected area and studied by a pathologist. Tumors are named after the type of tissue they resemble, with carcinomas being one such type that originate from epithelial cells and include common cancers such as those of the skin, lung, breast and colon.
Different cancers can also be distinguished based on characteristics like cell size and shape. For instance, lung carcinomas can be divided into small-cell carcinomas and non-small-cell carcinomas, each with unique prognoses and treatment protocols. Histology the study of the shape and arrangement of cells in tissue is instrumental in identifying these differences. Immunohistochemistry is another technique used to identify specific antigens on the surface of cancer cells, providing additional information for tumor classification and aiding in the diagnostic process. This level of diagnosis and classification is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan.