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Published on: October 14, 2016
Small cell osteosarcoma: cytopathologic characteristics and differential diagnosis
Justin A Bishop1, Chung H Shum, Sheila Sheth
1Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, 600 N Wolfe St, Path 406, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
American Journal of Clinical Pathology
|April 17, 2010
Summary
Diagnosing small cell osteosarcoma can be difficult due to its rarity and similarity to other tumors. Key cytologic features include small cells, round nuclei, and scant osteoid, aiding diagnosis with ancillary tests.
Area of Science:
- Cytopathology
- Skeletal Oncology
- Diagnostic Pathology
Background:
- Small cell osteosarcoma (SCO) is a rare variant of osteosarcoma.
- Its morphologic similarity to other small round blue cell tumors poses diagnostic challenges in cytology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elaborate on the cytomorphologic features of small cell osteosarcoma.
- To aid in the definitive diagnosis of SCO on cytologic assessment.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of five cases of small cell osteosarcoma from cytopathology archives.
- Analysis of cytologic features from fine-needle aspirations of primary bony lesions and metastases.
Main Results:
- Common features include small to intermediate cell size, high nuclear/cytoplasmic ratios, round nuclei, and finely granular chromatin.
- Minimal anisonucleosis, fine cytoplasmic vacuoles, and rare osteoid formation were also observed.
- Distinguishing features from classic osteosarcoma include smaller cells and scant osteoid.
Conclusions:
- Small cell osteosarcoma exhibits characteristic cytomorphologic features.
- Correlation with radiographic findings and ancillary tests is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
