Atypical stromal cells of lower female genital tract

Atypical stromal cells were identified in either the cervix or vagina in 27 (13%) of 205 autopsy specimens. They were more commonly observed in the vulva, occurring in 29 (78.4%) of 37 vulvar surgical specimens. In only seven patients were the cells present as a continuous band; five in cervix or vagina and two in vulva. Electronmicroscopic examination confirmed the fibroblastic nature of these cells. Although hormonal influences may be responsible for this stromal alteration, their occurrence in elderly patients and in males at other sites is not consistent with a specific hormonal profile. It is important not to misdiagnose these cells as malignant.