Lobulated

Describing a structure or organ divided into lobes or rounded segments. This characteristic implies a non-uniform, partitioned appearance, often with distinct boundaries between the segments. The lobes themselves can vary in size and shape, but they are typically separate from one another to some degree. The term highlights a specific architectural organization, where the whole is composed of individual, often spherical or partially spherical, subdivisions, much like the segments of a citrus fruit or the sections of certain plant leaves. This structural arrangement is common in various biological contexts, including the organization of glands, organs, and even some types of tumors. It is a key descriptive term in anatomy, botany, and pathology, providing crucial information for characterizing and classifying diverse biological entities. The degree of lobulation can vary, ranging from a few distinct lobes to a highly subdivided structure with numerous, smaller segments.

Lobulated meaning with examples

• The patient's lungs presented with a distinctly lobulated appearance on the X-ray, revealing a series of rounded sections that were easily identifiable, indicating a likely infection. This distinct division contrasted sharply with the smooth contours of a healthy lung.
• Examining the liver, the surgeon observed that the tumor exhibited a lobulated growth pattern, with several bulbous protrusions emerging from the main mass, a common characteristic of certain cancerous formations and requiring a precise excision.
• The botanist identified the plant by its leaves, noting that they displayed a strongly lobulated margin, forming rounded projections at their edges, easily distinguishing it from related species with smoother leaf outlines. This was an important taxonomic feature.
• Histological analysis revealed that the glandular tissue was lobulated, with groups of acini arranged into distinct lobes, a signifier of normal and healthy endocrine function. This helped distinguish it from other surrounding tissues.
• The ultrasound showed a lobulated cystic mass in the kidney. This meant its outer structure showed several rounded projections, requiring further investigation and differentiating it from simpler cysts with regular shapes and forms.