Multiple trichoepitheliomas in an alpaca (Lama pacos)

A 13-yr-old male Alpaca (Lama pacos) presented with multiple ovoid, well-circumscribed, nonulcerated intradermal masses. Individual masses measured 1-4 cm in diameter, and the overlying skin was alopecic. Several of the masses were surgically removed and evaluated microscopically. Histopathologic evaluation demonstrated multiple dermal cysts lined by neoplastic follicular epithelium. The cysts were filled with multiple layers of lamellar keratin and lined by abortive inner and outer root sheaths exhibiting cellular atypia, supporting the diagnosis of trichoepitheliomas. No additional treatment was initiated, and the alpaca continues to do well.

Effect of primary site on prognosis in patients with cutaneous malignant melanoma. A study using a new model to analyse anatomical locations

The prognostic impact of different anatomical sites in patients with cutaneous malignant melanoma (CMM) has been widely debated and requires further elucidation. Therefore, we developed EssDoll, a new computerized method to address the question of site in relation to prognosis. A population-based cohort of 1891 patients, diagnosed between 1976 and 1987 with invasive CMM without evidence of metastasis, was identified. The body surface was divided into 24 areas. Hazard ratios (HRs) for CMM death were calculated and areas were compared in both the whole model and in pairs. Cox's proportional hazard regression model was used and adjustments were made for established prognostic factors. Furthermore, the overall effect of site was calculated using the likelihood ratio test. Overall, the tumour site was of prognostic importance (P=0.0036). There was a significantly increased risk of CMM-specific death in patients with a primary tumour site in the middle and lower back (HR=1.8, P=0.04) and in the supramammary and mammary area (HR=1.8, P=0.05). When all areas were analysed in pairs, the dorsal shoulder, superior back and clavicular area also showed a worse prognosis. CMM diagnosed in other anatomical regions, including the calves, Achilles, upper arms, forehead, temples, cheeks and face, seemed to be related to a better prognosis. It can be concluded that the tumour site is of prognostic importance, and that the middle and lower back and supramammary and mammary areas are independent factors related to a poor prognosis.

Adrenal cortical adenoma with excess black pigment deposition, combined with myelolipoma and clinical Cushing's syndrome

We report a case of a functional adenoma with excess black pigment deposition and myelolipoma in the same adrenal gland in a 58-year-old woman. The patient presented with gastrointestinal bleeding, and after being diagnosed with colonic diverticulosis, underwent a total colectomy. An abdominal computerized tomographic (CT) scan during her work-up showed a right adrenal mass consistent with myelolipoma. Postoperatively, the patient was diagnosed with Cushing's syndrome and underwent a right adrenalectomy. The adrenalectomy specimen consisted of a dark brown and golden-yellow adrenal adenoma, myelolipoma, and atrophic adrenal gland. Immunostains indicated that the dark brown adenoma component was responsible for the patient's hypercortisolism. Co-occurrence of a functional black adenoma and a well-developed myelolipoma has not been reported in the literature. We describe the significant findings of this case, together with a review of the literature.

Sclerosing hemangioma of the lung in a young woman with cutaneous melanoma: the role of electron microscopy in preventing an erroneous diagnosis of metastasis

A young woman with a melanoma of the left forearm was found to have a right lung mass. This was initially interpreted as metastatic melanoma on the basis of clinical, radiographic, and light microscopic features, together with positive staining of tumor cells with antibody HMB-45. Electron microscopic examination performed for confirmation of the diagnosis revealed no evidence of melanocytic differentiation. Instead, there were features suggestive of the alternative diagnosis of sclerosing hemangioma (SH). This diagnosis was confirmed with additional immunocytochemical stains. To the authors' knowledge this is the first report of HMB-45 positivity in SH. This case illustrates a potentially disastrous diagnostic pitfall in interpreting lung tumors in patients with melanoma, and the vital role of electron microscopy in resolving conflicting and/or misleading immunocytochemical results.

Non-invasive lobular carcinoma within a fibroadenoma, a preoperatively diagnosed case

Breast cancer within a fibroadenoma is rare and usually diagnosed postoperatively from pathological specimens. This paper reports a 54-year-old female with non-invasive carcinoma within a fibroadenoma, diagnosed preoperatively. She underwent a medical examination and mastopathy was suspected. On physical examination a mass 2 cm in diameter was palpated in the left breast. Ultrasonography showed a mass with smooth margins and uniform internal echoes, but cytology showed malignancy. Mammography showed a round mass with distinct margins and no calcification. As fibroadenoma, diagnosed by ultrasonography and mammography, and breast cancer, diagnosed by cytology, were not consistent results several core biopsies were performed. Needle biopsy showed proliferation of atypical epithelial cells; breast cancer within a fibroadenoma was diagnosed. MRI showed a circular mass with distinct, smooth margins and in a dynamic study, the mass showed irregular staining and the presence of early staining. Left lumpectomy and dissection of the left axillary lymph nodes was performed. Histological examination showed non-invasive lobular carcinoma occurring within a fibroadenoma.

Acinar-islet cell tumor of the pancreas: report of a malignant pancreatic composite tumor

An unusual case of malignant pancreatic composite tumor with both components of acinar cell tumor (ACT) and islet cell tumor (ICT) was investigated histologically, immunohistochemically, and ultrastructurally. The pancreatic tumor with central cyst formation was found on computerized tomographic examination of a 72-year-old man reporting appetite and weight loss. The ACT component was present in the original pancreatic region and the ICT region was adjacent to the ACT. ACT was immunohistochemically positive for pancreatic amylase, whereas ICT had argyrophil tumor cells immunohistochemically positive for chromogranin A. There were several tumor cell nests positive for both pancreatic amylase (acinar differentiation) and chromogranin A (islet differentiation). We speculated that ICT may have arisen from the de-differentiated tumor cells in the ACT after the occurrence of ACT.

Malignant phyllodes tumor in the right breast and invasive lobular carcinoma within fibroadenoma in the other: case report

CONTEXT

The malignant variety of the phyllodes tumor is rare. The occurrence of invasive lobular carcinoma within fibroadenoma is rare as well.

DESIGN

Case report.

CASE REPORT

A 58-year-old black female patient was referred to the Mastology unit of the Department of Gynecology, Federal University of São Paulo / Escola Paulista de Medicina, in February 1990, presenting an ulcerated tumor in the right breast with fast growth over the preceding six months. She was a virgin, with meno-pause at the age of 45 years and had not undergone hormone replacement treatment. The physical examination showed, in her right breast, an ulcerated tumor of 20 x 30 cm which was not adher-ent to the muscle level, multilobular and with fibroelastic consistency. The axillary lymph nodes were not palpable. The left breast showed a 2 x 3 cm painless, movable nodule, with well-defined edges, and fibroelastic consistency. We performed left-breast mammography, which showed several nodules with well-defined edges, the largest being 2 x 3 cm and exhibiting rough calcification and grouped microcalcifications within it. The patient underwent a frozen biopsy that showed a malignant variant of the phyllodes tumor in the right breast and fibroadenoma in the left one. After that, we performed a total mastectomy in the right breast and an excision biopsy in the left one. Paraffin study confirmed the frozen biopsy result from the right breast, yet we observed that in the interior of the fibroadenoma that was removed on the left, there was a focal area of invasive lobular carcinoma measuring 0.4 cm. The patient then underwent a modi-fied radical mastectomy with total axillary lymphadenectomy. None of the 21 dissected lymph nodes showed evidence of metastasis. In the follow-up, the patient evolved asymptomatically and with normal physical and laboratory examination results up to July 1997.

Sinonasal teratocarcinosarcoma: ultrastructural and immunohistochemical evidence of neuroectodermal origin

The authors report a case of sinonasal teratocarcinosarcoma in a 37-year-old man, which was located in the anterior skull base and extended to the right nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses. The tumor was surgically resected twice, but it could not be removed completely. Microscopically, it was mainly composed of primitive cell nests within a moderately cellular stroma. The components of squamous cell epithelia with focal teratoid appearance and adenocarcinomatous differentiation were observed. There were many rhabdomyoblasts scattered in the nests and stroma. Ultrastructurally, the primitive cells had many neural processes with parallel microtubules, resembling olfactory neuroblastoma. Rhabdomyoblasts showed various degrees of skeletal muscle differentiation. Some of the stromal spindle cells had actin filaments with dense patches and dense core granules. Immunohistochemically, the primitive cells were positive for epithelial markers, neuron-specific enolase, synaptophysin, and myogenic regulatory proteins. The rhabdomyoblasts showed immunoreactivity for myoid markers, cytokeratin, epithelial membrane antigen, and synaptophysin. Most of the stromal spindle cells were positive for smooth muscle actin, neuron-specific enolase and synaptophysin. The immunohistochemical and ultrastructural findings suggest that primitive cells had the most primitive phenotype of placodes, and support the possibility that sinonasal teratocarcinosarcoma is essentially a neuroectodermal tumor with divergent differentiation.

Collision of uterine rhabdoid tumor and endometrioid adenocarcinoma: a case report and review of the literature

Extrarenal malignant rhabdoid tumors have been reported in a variety of anatomic sites but infrequently in the female genital tract. In the uterus, they have been described as a pure tumor, in association with endometrial stromal sarcomas, and as a component of a malignant mullerian mixed tumor. This study reports an unusual uterine neoplasm in a 49-year-old woman, in which a malignant rhabdoid tumor occurred as a collision tumor with a well-differentiated endometrioid adenocarcinoma. The tumor was a 14-cm polypoid mass that filled the endometrial cavity. The two neoplastic components were distinct on microscopic and immunohistochemical examination. Ultrastructural examination confirmed the rhabdoid phenotype of the sarcomatous component. The patient died of disease 4 months after diagnosis with progression of the malignant rhabdoid tumor. The highly aggressive behavior of the rhabdoid (i.e., nonepithelial) component in this collision tumor lends support for a distinction of this neoplasm from a malignant mullerian mixed tumor, with which it may be confused.

Initiation of ectopic epithelial calcification in a calcifying odontogenic cyst

Ultrastructural observation was performed on a calcifying odontogenic cyst (COC) associated with an odontoma and arising in the right mandibular region of an 8-year-old Japanese boy. Four types of cells were identified in the epithelial layer of the COC. The basal cells were low columnar in shape and contained some intracellular organelles. They were attached to the neighboring cells with a few desmosomes and resembled inner enamel epithelium of the normal enamel organ. The stellate reticulum-like cells, polygonal in shape, possessed desmosomes and many cytoplasmic projections. Some intracellular organelles and a few bundles of tonofilaments were observed in the cytoplasm. The light oval cells that were pale staining with toluidine blue contained dilated membranous organelles and many relatively evenly distributed tonofilaments. These cells were usually scattered in the vicinity of the focal accumulations of ghost cells, and the cell membrane was discontinuous in parts. The ghost cells contained many bundles of tonofilaments that were 60-240 nm in diameter and arranged in various directions. No intact intracellular organelles were noted in the cytoplasm. They were attached to the neighboring ghost cells with some desmosomes and their cell membrane was discontinuous in parts. A variety of vesicles, 90-450 nm in diameter, were scattered among the tonofilament bundles. Some of these contained needle-like crystals that were considered to be initial calcification sites in ghost cells. These vesicles presented morphological similarities to matrix vesicles, and it is therefore suggested that matrix vesicle-like structures are deeply involved with initiation of calcification of ghost cells in COC.

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma arising in Warthin's tumour of the parotid gland: report of two cases with histopathological, ultrastructural and immunohistochemical studies

AIMS

Malignant transformation of Warthin's tumour (WT) is a rare event. We present two cases of mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) arising in WT in the parotid gland.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Two cases of MEC arising in WT, which were found in 185 cases of WT of the parotid gland, were investigated by light and electron microscopy, and immunohistochemistry. Both cases had largely similar macroscopic and histological features with some differences. Histologically, the tumours consisted mainly of WT with multilayered hyperplastic arrangements of oncocytic cells and focal squamous and goblet cell metaplasia. In the same tumour mass, however, the features of MEC were observed with invasion to adjacent adipose tissue. A transitional zone between WT and MEC was evident. Both patients were alive and well without evidence of recurrence 30 and 34 months after surgery, respectively. Electron microscopy revealed that cyst lining epithelial cells in WTs had abundant mitochondria whereas some of the MEC cells contained numerous tonofilaments and mucinous granules. Immunohistochemically, oncocytic cells of WTs were strongly positive for mitochondria and SalylTn was extensively stained in MECs. The labelling index for Ki67 was obviously higher in the carcinoma cells than the epithelial cells of WT.

CONCLUSIONS

Our cases confirmed the possibility of malignant transformation of the epithelial component in WT to MEC.

Combined hepatocellular-cholangiocarcinoma: a clinicopathological study

Combined hepatocellular-cholangiocarcinoma (HCC-CC) is an uncommon form of primary liver cancer having features of both hepatocellular and biliary epithelial differentiation. We reviewed 21 cases of this tumour diagnosed between 1972 and 1996 (patient age range 16-79 years; mean patient age 49.7 years; 18 male and three female patients). Histologically, the majority (n = 18) of tumours were 'mixed' tumours, in which areas of hepatocellular and biliary epithelial differentiation were intimately mixed within the same tumours. Two patients had separate tumours in which discrete nodules of HCC and CC occurred in the same livers. One patient had a 'fibrolamellar' tumour that histologically simulated the fibrolamellar variant of HCC, but some of the tumour cells were mucin-producing cells. Of the 21 cases, mucin was demonstrable in 16 and, in the few mucin-negative tumours, electron microscopic studies confirmed the presence of the dual differentiation. The tumours frequently exhibited an invasive character with frequent venous permeation, direct invasion into adjacent liver parenchyma and tumour microsatellite formation, similar to that of ordinary HCC. Histological evidence of cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis was present in 77.8% of patients and 75% of patients were hepatitis B surface antigen positive. Raised serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels (above 300 ng/mL) were present in 61.5% of patients and AFP was detected immunohistochemically in 55% of tumours. The overall survival times of patients with HCC-CC were short. In conclusion, HCC-CC showed clinical and pathological features more akin to those of ordinary HCC than to CC.

Malignant eccrine spiradenoma with carcinomatous and sarcomatous elements

A case of a 60 year old man with malignant eccrine spiradenoma involving the perineum is described. Areas of typical eccrine spiradenoma were admixed with carcinomatous and sarcomatous elements. Immunohistochemical and ultrastructural analysis revealed no evidence of epithelial differentiation in the sarcomatous areas. The tumour qualified for the designation carcinosarcoma arising in eccrine spiradenoma. The clinical course was aggressive with rapid development of nodal and pulmonary metastases.

Multiple glomus tumours, Coats' disease and basic fibroblast growth factor

We report a patient with multiple glomus tumours and Coats' disease of the retina, an association not previously described. We discuss the possible pathogenesis of these conditions in view of the finding of elevated serum levels of basic fibroblast growth factor.

Eccrine syringofibroadenoma surrounding a squamous cell carcinoma: a case report

A 91-year-old man presented with a 9.0 x 7.0 cm exophytic mass on the dorsum of the right foot, surrounded by a scaling hyperkeratotic plaque-like lesion that had been present for many years. He had similar long-standing hyperkeratotic plaque-like lesions on both legs. Histopathologic examination of the exophytic mass revealed a well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma surrounded by an eccrine syringofibroadenoma (ESFA). Histochemistry, immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy support this diagnosis. To our knowledge, this is the only reported case of ESFA being intimately associated with a malignant neoplasm.

Superficial spreading melanoma and blue naevus within naevus spilus--ultrastructural assessment of giant pigment granules

BACKGROUND

Abnormal melanosomes occur in naevus spilus (NS).

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether melanoma arising in NS contains abnormal melanosomes.

METHODS

Light and electron microscopy of melanoma within NS and congenital naevus (Case 1), and of blue naevus within NS (Case 2). Light microscopy of additional naevi and melanomas.

RESULTS

The melanoma and NS (Case 1) both had large numbers of giant pigment granules (GPGs), demonstrated ultrastructurally to be melanosome macrocomplexes. These were not observed in a congenital naevus (Case 1), or in the blue naevus within NS (Case 2). Small numbers of GPGs were observed in 0/2 NS, 8/16 benign naevi and 11/16 malignant melanomas (MMs).

CONCLUSION

NS may be associated with other melanocytic tumours including MM and blue naevi; abnormal melanosomes in NS may also be present in the associated tumour. The prognostic importance of these is unknown, but occasional GPGs in melanocytic lesions are a frequent finding.

Small cell undifferentiated carcinoma of the colon associated with hepatocellular carcinoma in an immunodeficient patient

Small cell undifferentiated carcinoma (oat cell carcinoma) is a malignant epithelial neoplasm with neuroendocrine features. It can appear as a primary tumor in many organs besides the lung, including the colon. We report a case of primary small cell undifferentiated carcinoma of the left colon with omental metastases in a 23-year-old man with a history of X-linked hyper-IgM syndrome. The patient had a simultaneous primary hepatocellular carcinoma. A literature review of this rare colonic malignancy is presented together with a discussion of the possible relationship of this tumor with hepatic malignancy and immunodeficiency.

Neuroendocrine carcinoma arising in an ovarian mucinous cystadenoma

A case of neuroendocrine carcinomas arising in the form of a mural nodule in an ovarian mucinous cystadenoma is presented. This represents the third case of neuroendocrine carcinoma arising in an ovarian mucinous tumor. The carcinoma cells were moderately to strongly immunoreactive for enolase, keratin, chromogranin, synaptophysin, and focally, neuron-specific enolase, and contained 130-330 nm neurosecretory granules. The patient presented 9 months after surgery with liver metastases and peritoneal implants. She died of disease within 10 months of initial presentation.

Adenoid cystic (cylindromatous) carcinoma associated with squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix uteri: cytologic presentation of a case with histologic and ultrastructural correlations

BACKGROUND

Adenoid cystic (cylindromatous) carcinoma is a rare tumor. It accounts for approximately < 1-3% of primary adenocarcinomas of the cervix uteri. Its origin is debatable. It has a higher incidence in postmenopausal women but can develop in patients under 40. An association of adenoid cystic carcinoma with squamous cell carcinoma has been reported.

CASE

A case of invasive adenoid cystic (cylindromatous) carcinoma associated with an in situ squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix detected on Papanicolaou smears is reported. Ultrastructural studies provided findings that confirmed that the hyaline material corresponded to the remnants of the lamina densa of the basement membrane of malignant cells.

CONCLUSION

The concurrence of these two tumors supports the hypothesis that adenoid cystic carcinoma of the cervix may develop from multipotent reserve cells.

Paraganglioma: an unusual tumour of the parathyroid gland

A case of paraganglioma arising within a parathyroid gland is reported. The lesion was an incidental finding in a block dissection of neck performed for squamous carcinoma of the pharynx. A well-circumscribed lesion, exhibiting the characteristic pathological features of a paraganglioma, was embedded within the right inferior parathyroid gland. Due to its location, the chief histological differential diagnosis was an unusual variant of parathyroid adenoma. Immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy assisted in reaching a diagnosis. This, as far as we are aware, is the first reported case of a paraganglioma of the parathyroid gland.

Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma arising in the nasal cavities with an associated undifferentiated carcinoma

A case of polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma arising in the right nasal cavity of a male patient with previous history of kidney transplantation is reported. The tumor contained extensive areas of undifferentiated carcinoma, probably arising from the low-grade component. This combination of findings has not been previously reported in this variety of salivary gland tumor.

Estrogen and progesterone receptor content in bilateral breast cancer

Estrogen and progesterone receptor content was determined in 34 patients with synchronous and 23 patients with asynchronous bilateral breast cancer. Steroid receptor content was measured quantitatively by DCC method. It was shown that progesterone receptor content could not be predicted, as well as, that steroid receptor content of the second tumor significantly influenced the development of asynchronous bilateral breast cancer. The high discordance rate concerning histologic type between two tumors within synchronous as well as asynchronous biopsies was observed. The obtained results indicate that both synchronous and asynchronous bilateral breast tumors may be considered as biologically different tumors whose both steroid receptor levels should be determined whenever possible.

A case of ductal sweat gland carcinoma connected to syringocystadenoma papilliferum arising in nevus sebaceus

We report a case of a tumor arising in the preauricular region in a 50-year-old woman. The histopathological findings revealed it to be a ductal sweat gland carcinoma connected to a syringocystadenoma papilliferum (SCAP) arising in a nevus sebaceus. Mucinous stroma, considered to be deposition of hyaluronic acid, was also observed in the ductal carcinoma portion. The immunohistochemical and ultrastructural findings in the ductal carcinoma were compared with those in the SCAP. The proliferating cell nuclear antigen labeling index of the cells in the ductal carcinoma was higher than that of those in the SCAP. Both the ductal sweat gland carcinoma and SCAP showed findings compatible with the ductal segment of a sweat gland.

Nuclear morphometry in xeroderma pigmentosum-associated malignant melanomas

Previous clinical observations have indicated that the metastatic potential for thick malignant melanoma is lower for patients with xeroderma pigmentosum than for other patients. In a prospective study using computerized image analysis to measure the morphometric characteristics of nuclei in these neoplasms, we found that the nuclei of malignant melanoma cells were smaller and more ovoid in patients with xeroderma pigmentosum than in other patients. Objective evaluation and grading of these subtle histopathologic variables could provide a means of establishing prognostic factors unrelated to the thickness of the neoplasm.

A patient with rhabdomyosarcoma and clear cell sarcoma of the skin

We describe a patient with rhabdomyosarcoma of the posterior cervical region and clear cell sarcoma on the occipital scalp. These two tumors later metastasized to distant skin. We differentiated these tumors by histopathologic, histochemical, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural findings. Cells of the posterior cervical tumor showed differentiation toward striated muscle, whereas those of the occipital tumor showed findings compatible with melanocytic differentiation.

Ovarian neuroendocrine carcinoma associated with a mucinous neoplasm

We describe a rare case of a neuroendocrine carcinoma of the ovary in a 22-year-old woman who presented with abdominal pain and a pelvic mass. Exploratory laparotomy revealed a right ovarian tumor weighing 2100 g. A right salpingo-oophorectomy and an appendectomy were performed. There was no evidence intraoperatively or postoperatively of metastatic disease. Microscopic examination of the ovary revealed solid nests of tumor cells with a neuroendocrine appearance, high mitotic rate, necrosis, and vascular invasion; the tumor was associated with a predominantly borderline mucinous neoplasm with a small focus of mucinous carcinoma. Neuroendocrine differentiation was confirmed by Grimelius stains, immunohistochemical assays (chromogranin), and electron microscopy. The appendix was histologically unremarkable. The patient received a course of chemotherapy; 3 months after completing chemotherapy, she developed multiple liver metastases and died of disease a week later. To our knowledge, this case report is the second one involving a primary neuroendocrine carcinoma of the ovary occurring in association with a mucinous neoplasm. Mixed mucinous and neuroendocrine carcinoma of the ovary may represent a rare neoplasm with extremely aggressive behavior.

Mixed acinar-endocrine carcinomas of the pancreas

Acinar cell carcinoma is a rare pancreatic neoplasm that may contain scattered endocrine cells in as many as 40% of cases. In addition, unusual tumors exist in which the acinar and endocrine components each constitute a significant proportion (> 25%) of the neoplasm; we propose to designate them as "mixed acinar-endocrine carcinomas." In a study of five such cases, we found one case with segregated areas of acinar and endocrine cells that were identifiable in routinely stained sections and four cases with morphologically uniform cell populations where the divergent differentiation was only detected immunohistochemically. The tumors occurred in adults (age range, 48-81; mean, 68); there were two men and three women. None of the patients presented with symptoms related to either enzyme or hormone liberation. Histologically, the tumors were very cellular; various combinations of solid, trabecular, acinar, and glandular growth patterns were noted. The cells contained d-PAS-positive granules and showed immunohistochemical positivity for pancreatic enzymes (trypsin, chymotrypsin, and lipase) and endocrine markers (chromogranin and synaptophysin); specific endocrine hormones were found in two cases. Double immunohistochemical staining for acinar and endocrine markers showed that most cells expressed only one line of differentiation. Ultrastructural study of two cases showed two populations of granules. Two of the patients died of their tumors (mean survival, 10.5 months), one with widespread metastases. Two patients were alive with disease at 12 months after diagnosis, and one patient was lost to follow-up after 3 months. This rare type of pancreatic neoplasm provides further evidence of the close histogenetic relationship between the exocrine and endocrine components of this organ.

Composite cutaneous T-cell lymphoma and small B-cell lymphocytic lymphoma: morphologic, immunologic, and molecular genetic documentation of concurrent lymph node involvement

Synchronous cutaneous T-cell lymphoma and low-grade B-cell lymphoproliferative disorders have rarely been reported in the same patient. Coexpression of each phenotype in the same lymph node has not, to our knowledge, been previously documented. We describe an 86-year-old man with chronic pruritus and erythroderma and recent-onset peripheral lymphadenopathy and lymphocytosis. Lymph node biopsy provided morphological and immunohistochemical evidence of concurrent small B lymphocytic lymphoma and small pleomorphic T-cell lymphoma. Immunophenotyping of nodal lymphocytes demonstrated two distinct clones: IgM-kappa B-cells with CD5 positivity and CD7 negative T-helper cells. Both immunoglobulin (heavy and light chains) and T-cell receptor (beta I and beta II) gene rearrangements were detected by Southern blot analysis of the lymph node. In contrast, the immunophenotype of lymphocytes from peripheral blood and bone marrow was exclusively that of T-helper cells with atypical CD7 deletion. Electron microscopic examination of circulating lymphocytes revealed small cerebriform Sezary cells. This case demonstrates that small lymphocytic lymphoma may coexist intranodally with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma as a unique form of composite T- and B-cell lymphoma.

Paravaginal female adnexal tumor of probable wolffian origin

Female adnexal tumor of wolffian origin (FATPWO) is a lesion that predominantly occurs in the broad ligament. Its occurrence in the right paravaginal area is rare; only one other case has been reported to occur at this site. The authors report a case of paravaginal FATPWO in a 20-year-old woman that recurred twice during a 5-year period. The microscopic and ultrastructural features of this lesion were identical to other cases of FATPWO reported in the literature. This tumor must be recognized, especially at this site, so that it is not confused with vaginal adenocarcinoma related to diethylstilbestrol exposure in utero.

Multiple ileal carcinoids and appendiceal endocrine carcinoma in association with Meckel's diverticulum. A histochemical and immunohistochemical study

An unusual case of multicentric ileal carcinoids and appendiceal endocrine carcinoma in association with Meckel's diverticulum was studied, with special attention given to the histogenesis of these neoplasms. A total of six ileal carcinoids, the largest of which was located in the wall of Meckel's diverticulum, were macroscopically and microscopically confirmed to be multicentric and revealed no visceral metastases. The histochemical and immunohistochemical profiles of the ileal carcinoids and the appendiceal carcinoma differed considerably: the former resembled subepithelial neuroendocrine cells and the latter resembled epithelial nonmucous cells and Paneth cells. The appendiceal carcinoma exhibited signs of endocrine differentiation, expressing somatostatin and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide, and secreted mucus. The tumor had metastasized to various organs. The carcinoids exhibited signs of neuroendocrine and glandular differentiation, expressing neuron-specific enolase, serotonin, chromogranin A, and endocrine granule constituent, and secreted little mucus. The data suggest different tumor cell origins or different grades of differentiation of the two types of intestinal endocrine cell tumor.

Papillary variant of low-grade mucoepidermoid carcinoma--an unusual bronchial neoplasm. A light microscopic, ultrastructural, and immunohistochemical study

The authors report an unusual bronchial papillary tumor found in the right lower lobe of a 89-year-old woman at the time of postmortem examination. The lesion was difficult to classify and did not fit well into any lung neoplasm category. Light and electron microscopic features were consistent with a papillary variant of low-grade mucoepidermoid carcinoma. Differential diagnoses mainly included the papillary bronchial mucous gland adenoma and the mixed epithelial-cell-type papilloma. Histogenetically, the tumor appeared to originate from the surface epithelium. Because the lesion showed features of low malignant potential, lobectomy would constitute an appropriate therapy whenever possible.

[Simultaneous laryngeal carcinomas: a case report and review of literature]

The high incidence of second primary malignant neoplasms in patients under treatment for head and neck tumors has been well documented in literature. In these cases the second primary reappears still in the upper aero-digestive tract or in distant organs (lung, esophagus, stomach, skin,....). The Authors report a case of a male, 64 year old patient, a moderate drinker and smoker, with two distinct simultaneous laryngeal malignant neoplasms. One tumor, which arose on the laryngeal face of the epiglottis, was a verrucous carcinoma (Ackerman's tumor); the other neoplasm, on the right vocal cord, was a well differentiated squamous cell carcinoma. Microlaryngeal examinations and TC-scans revealed a normal, uninvolved right false vocal cord and the Morgagni's ventricle. After surgical therapy, serial laryngeal samples were removed and underwent immunohistochemical studies. Microscopic examination revealed that the anterior commissure, the pre-epiglottic and paraglottic spaces were intact, furthermore, monoclonal antibody studies proved that the two simultaneous laryngeal cancers were independent. In the discussion the Authors report some clinical considerations, a review of literature concerning multiple simultaneous laryngeal tumours and emphasize the concept of "field cancerization", first described with regard to the oral cavity by Slaughter.

Three subtypes of poroid neoplasia in a single lesion: eccrine poroma, hidroacanthoma simplex, and dermal duct tumor. Histologic, histochemical, and ultrastructural findings

A single poroid neoplasm composed of three histologically distinct lesions (hidroacanthomas simplex, eccrine poroma, and dermal duct tumor) is reported. Comparative histologic, histochemical, and electron-microscopic studies revealed that each tumor subtype contained varying proportions of poroid cells, clear cells, and cuticular cells. The major component of all three neoplasms was poroid cells, which, under the electron microscope, were characterized by a few, small, poorly developed desmosomes, and were histochemically characterized by a positive succinic dehydrogenase reaction. The dermal duct tumor was cultured, and showed similar histochemical findings to the in vivo poroid cells. These results suggest that poroid cells play the most important role in the histogenesis of these three neoplasms.

Is tubular apocrine adenoma a distinct clinical entity?

A 75-year-old Japanese man developed a tubular apocrine adenoma (TAA) (tubulopapillary hidradenoma with apocrine differentiation, a rare skin tumor), within a long-standing organoid nevus on the parietal area of his scalp. Histologically, the tumor consisted of dilated ductlike areas with some atypism and apocrine glandlike areas surrounded by myoepithelial cells. The superficial part of the tumor was connected to the epidermis and showed some of the characteristics of syringocystadenoma papilliferum (SCAP). The close relationship between TAA, SCAP, and papillary eccrine adenoma (PEA) is discussed. According to 19 reported cases of TAA, SCAP might occur together with TAA when they are preceded by an organoid nevus, and they might represent a spectrum of disease. Although TAA and PEA may represent another spectrum (designated as tubulopapillary hidradenoma), the relationship to SCAP should be considered in understanding and diagnosing an intermediate case.

Synchronous occurrence of an intermediate small cell and a bronchiolo-alveolar carcinoma of the lung

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Association between ATL and non-hematopoietic neoplasms

A high incidence of multiple primary neoplasms has been observed in our patients with ATL in comparison to persons with other forms of hematologic malignancy who we have observed during the past 23 years (1963-1985). Five of 15 patients with ATL (33.3 per cent) have had at least one other associated neoplasm in comparison to only 44 of 1156 patients with other forms of hematological malignancy (3.8 per cent). The incidence figures for secondary neoplasms associated with the other hematologic malignancies were 4.3 per cent (16/370) for acute non-lymphocytic leukemia (ANLL), 2.2 per cent (2/90) for acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), 4.8 per cent (1/21) for acute unclassifiable leukemia, 2.2 per cent (5/225) for chronic myelogenous leukemia, 4.7 per cent (2/43) for chronic lymphocytic leukemia, 5.9 per cent (8/136) for malignant monoclonal gammopathy and 3.7 per cent (10/271) for malignant lymphoma. The incidence of multiple neoplasms in patients with ATL in comparison to those with other hematological malignancies was statistically significant (p < 0.01 or p < 0.001). The neoplasms associated with ATL have been adenocarcinoma of the thyroid or stomach, and squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx, lip or lung. We identified ATL-derived factor (ADF) in the cytoplasm of the secondary neoplasms of the ATL patients by means of indirect immunofluoroscopy and immunohistochemical techniques utilizing anti-ADF antibody. We also identified ras p21 products in these neoplasms by means of p21 ras monoclonal antibody studies. The possibility that HTLV-I was the cause of the secondary neoplasms thus was investigated. HTLV-I provirus genome was not found in all the six cases of non-ATL leukemic cells of the patients with anti-HTLV-I antibodies as determined by means of Southern blot analysis utilizing pX DNA probe. These findings suggest that there is some association between ATL cells and pre-malignant cells through ADF or other unknown factors in the activation of ras oncogenes. Subsequent suppression of host immune defence mechanisms in ATL patients permits evolution of the secondary neoplasms.

Primary collision neoplasm of malignant melanoma and adenocarcinoma in the lung. A case report

We report an extremely rare case of a primary collision neoplasm in the lung consisting of malignant melanoma and adenocarcinoma. A malignant melanoma was histologically diagnosed by a transbronchial lung biopsy of the lung nodule in a 61-year-old woman, in whom there was no demonstrable primary malignant melanoma found elsewhere. However, at autopsy the above two components of the pulmonary tumor were both histologically and immunohistochemically confirmed. There was little intermingling of the two tumors. The malignant melanoma was positive for monoclonal antibody specific for melanotic tumor (HMB45) and S-100 protein but was negative for epithelial membrane antigen (EMA), while it was the opposite in the adenocarcinoma. This case is, to our knowledge, the first reported collision tumor of the above two components.

Combined small-cell and transitional cell carcinoma of the renal pelvis. A light microscopic, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural study of a case with literature review

Primary small-cell carcinomas of the kidney are rare, locally aggressive, and rapidly fatal neoplasms in elderly people. We report an example of combined small-cell and transitional cell carcinoma of the renal pelvis in a 71-year-old woman who had a history of heavy smoking. The cells that pertained to the small-cell component were morphologically mostly of an intermediate type. Immunohistochemically, they reacted with synaptophysin, carcinoembryonic antigen, and epithelial markers (Lu-5, EAB902, EAB903, and cytokeratin 19), and they contained scanty neurosecretory granules at the ultrastructural level. We review the literature on small-cell carcinoma of the kidney and renal pelvis, and we discuss the histogenesis of such a tumor.

Disseminated leiomyomatosis peritonealis: report of a case in a postmenopausal woman

Disseminated leiomyomatosis peritonealis (DLP) is a rare condition that to date has been reported only in premenopausal women. The author reports a case of DPL occurring in a postmenopausal woman who had undergone total hysterectomy 30 years before and had received no hormonal therapy subsequently. The lesions were multiple and consisted of smooth-muscle cells that proliferated from medium-sized blood vessels. The author concludes that the patient's lesions likely represent a histologic variant of DLP.

Agminated blue nevi: case report and review of the literature

Blue nevi may rarely appear in multiple form and grouped in a circumscribed area, a pattern of arrangement that is more properly designed under the term agminated blue nevi. In this paper a new case with light and ultrastructural studies is described, and the previously reported cases are reviewed. Histologically, there was a characteristic perifollicular arrangement of dermal melanocytes, most of which showed ultrastructurally an extracellular sheath. Agminated blue nevi seem to be benign lesions, but because of their rarity, no definite prognosis can be given.

Osteoclast-like giant cell tumour of the gallbladder

We describe a rare carcinoma of the gallbladder containing osteoclast-like giant cells. Well-differentiated adenocarcinoma was found in the mucosa of the fundus, and osteoclast-like giant cells were present mainly in a haemorrhagic mass protruding from the mucosal surface. The metastatic hepatic tumour was composed chiefly, if not exclusively, of osteoclastoma-like cells, but minute carcinomatous elements were also present. There was an apparent transition between the giant cells and tubular structures in both the gallbladder tumour and hepatic tumour. However, ultrastructural study did not reveal any evidence of epithelial differentiation in the giant cells. Immunohistochemical studies suggested that the mononuclear and giant cells were mesenchymal and histiocytic in nature (vimentin and factor XIIIa positive). A few exceptional giant cells transforming from the fine tubular structure were positive for epithelial membrane antigen. In conclusion, the osteoclast-like giant cell tumour component was thought to represent mesenchymal metaplasia in pre-existent adenocarcinoma.

Multiple linear cylindromas

We report a case of multiple cylindromas with a linear arrangement on the lower right extremity. The patient had more than 100 tumors, but the scalp was spared. Some tumors showed overlapping features with eccrine spiradenoma. We believe this is the first report of multiple linear cylindromas.

A rare case of a multicentric peripheral ameloblastoma of the gingiva. A light and electron microscopic study

A rare case of a multicentric peripheral ameloblastoma of the gingiva in a 54-year-old male patient is described along with a light and electron microscopic study of the excised tumors. The peripheral ameloblastoma is considered to be the gingival counterpart of the more common intraosseous ameloblastoma. Although both tumors have similar histomorphologic characteristics, their clinical appearance and behavior are completely different. The peripheral ameloblastoma is slow growing and non-invasive, and recurrence is uncommon following excision. The more common central ameloblastoma, is locally invasive and can destroy large segments of the jaw. The histogenesis of the peripheral ameloblastoma and several other odontogenic tumors of the gingiva serves to illustrate the proliferative potential of the basal cell layer of gingival epithelium.

The intriguing nature of gastric tumors in Carney's triad. Ultrastructural and immunohistochemical observations

The authors describe clinical and pathologic features present in an adolescent girl who had a gastric tumor and mediastinal mass. The latter was shown to be a paraganglioma, and the gastric neoplasm was classified as malignant "leiomyoblastoma," with the use of current histologic criteria. This tumor had metastasized to the liver but not to the lungs. Although the histologic criteria for leiomyoblastoma were fulfilled, no definite evidence of smooth-muscle cell differentiation was present ultrastructurally or by immunostaining methods. Gastric tumors that form part of "Carney's triad" are known to differ clinically and pathologically in important ways from smooth-muscle cell malignant neoplasms that are not part of this syndrome. Some have been classified as gastrointestinal autonomic nerve tumors, but the current study did not confirm this contention. The nature of gastric leiomyoblastomas in Carney's multitumoral association remains undecided.

Neuroendocrine carcinomas associated with squamous cell carcinomas of the uterine cervix: light and electron microscopic observations in two cases

Small cell carcinomas are rare in cervical cancers and appear to be a heterogeneous group of tumors. Neuroendocrine carcinoma of the cervix, one subtype of small cell carcinomas of the cervix, can be identified by characteristic light and electron microscopic criteria. Two cases of neuroendocrine carcinomas associated with squamous cell carcinomas of the uterine cervix are reported in which electron microscopic studies were performed. The presence of small dense-core membrane-bound granules (120 to 160 nm) in cytoplasmic process under electron microscopic observation confirmed the diagnosis of neuroendocrine carcinoma of the cervix. The coexistence of electron dense-core membrane-bound granules, abundant tonofibrils, and desmosomes within the cancer cells, suggests that these tumors may have derived from the multipotential precursor cells with neuroendocrine and squamous differentiation. Because neuroendocrine carcinomas appear to have the highest incidence of recurrence and the poorest prognosis, it is necessary to distinguish these neoplasms from squamous cell carcinomas of the cervix. Literature about neuroendocrine carcinomas of the cervix is also reviewed.

Myxoid leiomyosarcoma of the kidney accompanying ipsilateral ureteral transitional cell carcinoma. A case report with cytological, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural study

The authors report a case of myxoid leiomyosarcoma of the kidney accompanying ipsilateral ureteral transitional cell carcinoma. A 74-year-old male patient complained of turbid urine and macroscopic hematuria. He also complained of left back pain, appetite loss and weight loss. Computed tomography revealed a large mass in the left retroperitoneum. Urine cytology disclosed two types of malignant cells, atypical spindle-shaped cells and transitional cell carcinoma. Left total nephro-ureterectomy was performed. The left kidney was occupied by a 6 x 4 x 4 cm, multinodular and mucinous tumor. A transitional cell carcinoma of the left ureter was also observed. The renal tumor was composed of atypical spindle-shaped cells in the mucinous stroma, which showed positive immunoreactivity for anti-muscle-specific actin and anti-desmin antibodies. The ultrastructural examination revealed intracytoplasmic microfilaments with dense bodies, pinocytotic vesicles and junctional structure. These findings were suggestive of the myogenic feature of the case. Urine cytology revealed a number of sarcoma cells in this case since the sarcoma cells markedly invaded the renal pelvis and were apt to separate individually in myxoid stroma. Simultaneous and ipsilateral double malignancies of the renal sarcoma and ureteral transitional cell carcinoma have never been reported in the literature.

Ki-1-positive lymphoma developing 10 years after the diagnosis of hairy cell leukemia

The case is described of a 62-year-old man with a 10-year history of hairy cell leukemia (HCL) who subsequently had a large-cell anaplastic or so-called Ki-1-positive lymphoma. Immunocytochemical staining of the lymphomatous node revealed positivity for Ki-1 (CD30) and epithelial membrane antigen in the tumor cells, and flow cytometric analysis showed simultaneous expression of Leu M5 (CD11c) and Leu 14 (CD22). Although HCL has been reported to coexist with both Hodgkin's disease and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, the authors believe this is the first case in which a Ki-1-positive lymphoma developed in a patient with HCL. The clinicopathologic and immunologic features of both entities are discussed, as is the association of HCL with other neoplasms.