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Published on: November 14, 2012
Cytologic features of meningiomas on crush preparations: a review
Momin T Siddiqui1, Brett M Mahon, Elizabeth Cochran
1Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University Hospital, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
Abstract:
Meningiomas are rarely subjected to aspiration, however, since they may occur outside the central nervous system, it is important to recognize their cytologic features. The goal of this study was to examine the cytologic features of meningiomas in crush preparations and cytologic imprints prepared at the time of frozen section. A total of 97 cases of meningiomas evaluated intraoperatively by frozen section with concomitant crush preparation and cytologic imprint were reviewed to assess their cytologic features. The cytologic features of meningiomas identified in our study are cohesive syncitial clusters of cells with ill-defined boundaries. The nuclei are oval and may be eccentrically placed, along with small central nucleoli. The cytologic features may not reflect the histologic subtype. The psammomatous variant can however be easily recognized in touch preps/imprints. The presence of nuclear anaplasia, macronucleoli, mitotic activity, and sheet-like growth may suggest an atypical meningioma. In conclusion, the cytologic features identified would be helpful in diagnosis of meningiomas, especially in unusual locations.
Insights
Cytologic features of meningiomas are identifiable in crush preparations and imprints. Recognizing these features aids in diagnosing meningiomas, particularly those in unusual locations outside the central nervous system.
Area of Science:
- Neuropathology
- Cytopathology
Background:
- Meningiomas, tumors arising from meninges, can occur outside the central nervous system.
- Intraoperative cytologic evaluation is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine and characterize the cytologic features of meningiomas in crush preparations and cytologic imprints.
- To assess the utility of these cytologic methods in diagnosing meningiomas, especially in non-central nervous system locations.
Main Methods:
- Review of 97 meningioma cases evaluated intraoperatively.
- Analysis of crush preparations and cytologic imprints obtained during frozen section.
Main Results:
- Identified characteristic cytologic features: cohesive syncytial clusters, ill-defined cell boundaries, oval/eccentrically placed nuclei, and small central nucleoli.
- Atypical meningiomas may show nuclear anaplasia, macronucleoli, mitotic activity, and sheet-like growth.
- Psammomatous variants are recognizable in touch preparations/imprints.
Conclusions:
- Cytologic features are valuable for diagnosing meningiomas, particularly in unusual locations.
- Crush preparations and imprints provide essential diagnostic information for intraoperative assessment.
