Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 15, 2026
Identifying, Diagnosing, and Grading Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors in Genetically Engineered Mouse Models
Published on: May 17, 2024
Cytologic features of malignant cystic pheochromocytoma: a case report
Shankaran Rukmini Niveditha1, Belur Venugopal Suguna, Krishnamurthy
1Department of Pathology, Kempegowda Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangalore, India. srniveditha@hotmail.com
Background:
Image-guided fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy of deep-seated lesions (e.g., retroperitoneal) has aided preoperative diagnosis and treatment planning. Fine needle aspiration biopsy of pheochromocytomas traditionally has been contraindicated by many authors because of possible hypertensive crisis and fatal hemorrhage. Cytologic features are described for a malignant pheochromocytoma (greater percentage of smaller cells and absence of hyaline globules) with extensive cystic degeneration that was later confirmed by histopathologic, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural studies.
Case:
An elderly man was diagnosed with renal cell carcinoma based on clinical examination and ultrasonography. FNA performed on the mass revealed interesting features of pheochromocytoma with an abundance of small cells.
Conclusion:
The cytopathologist should be aware of the cytologic features of pheochromocytoma so as to detect a clinically unsuspected lesion. An increased percentage of smaller cells may be indicative of aggressive tumors.
