What are Rosenthal fibres?
**Core Concept**
Rosenthal fibres are abnormal, eosinophilic, intracytoplasmic inclusions found in astrocytes of the brain, particularly in cases of chronic subdural hematoma, brain injury, or as a result of reactive gliosis.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
These fibres are composed of aggregated glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and are thought to be a result of the cellular response to injury or inflammation. They are often seen in conditions where there is a significant amount of astrocytic proliferation, such as in cases of chronic subdural hematoma or following severe brain trauma. The presence of Rosenthal fibres can be a useful diagnostic clue in the histopathological examination of brain tissue.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Astrocytic processes - This is incorrect because astrocytic processes are normal, branching extensions of astrocytes that play a crucial role in maintaining the blood-brain barrier and supporting neurons.
**Option B:** Microglial nodules - This is incorrect because microglial nodules are aggregates of microglial cells that are typically seen in response to infection or inflammation, but are distinct from Rosenthal fibres.
**Option C:** Ependymal inclusions - This is incorrect because ependymal inclusions are abnormal structures found in the ependymal cells lining the ventricles, and are not related to Rosenthal fibres.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Rosenthal fibres are often seen in cases of chronic subdural hematoma, and their presence can be a useful diagnostic clue in the histopathological examination of brain tissue.
**Correct Answer: C. Rosenthal fibres are abnormal, eosinophilic, intracytoplasmic inclusions found in astrocytes of the brain, particularly in cases of chronic subdural hematoma, brain injury, or as a result of reactive gliosis.**