Actinic Keratosis Histology. Histology or biopsy is rarely needed to make the diagnosis of an actinic keratosis. When lesions are thick or hypertrophic, the physician may perform a biopsy to ensure the lesion has not progressed into an invasive squamous cell carcinoma. The histologic hallmark of an actinic keratosis is keratinocyte atypia of the lower epidermis.
A swollen pancreas is commonly caused by gallstones, which could force a patient to have their gallbladder removed. Problems with the pancreas can be diagnosed with an ultrasound. Alcohol abuse may cause a swollen pancreas. Cystic fibrosis is a painful, genetic disease that can lead to infections in the lungs. A pancreas that is not performing correctly may cause bloating and watery stools. Gallstones, which are hardened deposits of bile, often cause swollen pancreas.
Enlarged Pancreas: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments. An enlarged pancreas can occur for many reasons. The pancreas is a gland that sits behind your stomach in the upper abdomen and helps with digestion. It produces enzymes that are secreted into the small intestine, digesting protein, fat, and carbohydrates. The pancreas also produces insulin to help regulate blood sugar (glucose), the body's main source of energy.