The macrophages are large cells with a pale cytoplasm containing vacuoles. Fibroblasts are usually thin elongated cells with relatively little cytoplasm visible. In addition, the nuclei may vary in their shape from ellipsoid to something more triangular or diamond-like. Examine the outer mesothelial surface. The lamina propria and submucosa of the appendix contain large groups of densely stained lymphocytes.
Lymphocytes have a dense nucleus with little cytoplasm.
At higher power, note the numerous eosinophils. Note also the plasma cells with their characteristic, eccentrically located nucleus, heterochromatin, basophilic cytoplasm, and negative Golgi. The lymph nodes usually lie within adipose tissue. Find the area outside the capsule and identify individual adipocytes. Using an atlas, identify the cortex and medulla of the lymph node.