Histology
Welcome to virtual microscopy.
Updated March 2026The «Tales» Histology course is an online histology program offered by the Faculty of Medicine, University of Basel, primarily intended for students of Human and Dental Medicine. It is divided into two sections: General Histology and Microscopic Anatomy of Organs. The course provides online access to the histological specimens discussed in lectures and practical sessions throughout the various academic years. These specimens can be examined from any computer with internet access. Each specimen is accompanied by a Microscopy Instruction, which outlines the Objective of the Examination, special features, and the areas of the specimen to be studied.
During histological preparation, variations in tissue consistency can occasionally lead to folds, tears, or gaps around structures. In addition, small air bubbles or dye crystals may sometimes be visible in the specimens. Such artifacts cannot always be avoided; in certain cases (though not everywhere), specific notes draw attention to them. Some overview images of typical artifacts can be found here.
In histology—whether in textbooks, lectures, or the individual chapters of this «Tales» project—a wide range of technical terms are used, not all of which are explained in context. To support understanding, a glossary has been compiled. It focuses primarily on the terminology of general histology but also includes other histologically relevant terms, each briefly and clearly defined. At the time being, the glossary can be downloaded as a PDF file in German only. Click here.
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University of Basel