Nucleus-to-cytoplasm ratio

Nucleus-to-cytoplasm ratio, also nuclear-cytoplasmic ratio, is the relative size of the nucleus to the cytoplasm. It is commonly abbreviated NC ratio.

High NC ratio is strong predictor of malignancy. Like very rule, there are exceptions.

High NC ratio in normal cells

• Lymphocytes.

Low NC ratio in cancer

• Fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma.
• Acinic cell carcinoma.
• Many others.

High NC ratio in cancer

The classic malignant high NC ratio cell is small cell carcinoma, which is in the large small round cell tumour group.

• Many other tumours - see A long differential diagnosis of small blue cell tumours.

Atypical cells with a normal NC ratio

• Radiation changes - clinical history is important!
• Many tumours.

See also

• Nuclear pleomorphism.
• Nuclear atypia.
• Basics.
• Cytologic features and malignancy.