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Vascular alterations in schwannoma
Joseph Papiez1, Mumtaz V Rojiani2, Amyn M Rojiani3
1Department of Pathology, University of Florida Gainesville, USA.
International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Pathology
|August 15, 2014
Summary
Schwannomas exhibit unique vascular changes, including proliferation and permeability, distinguishing them from other benign nerve tumors. These findings aid in diagnosing schwannomas and understanding their characteristic
Area of Science:
- Neuropathology
- Oncology
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- Schwannomas (neurilemmomas) are common benign peripheral nerve sheath tumors.
- Cerebellopontine angle is a frequent location for schwannomas.
- Distinguishing schwannomas from other spindle cell neoplasms is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate vascular alterations in schwannomas.
- To compare vascular features of schwannomas with meningiomas and neurofibromas.
- To assess vascular permeability in schwannomas and its correlation with histological findings.
Main Methods:
- Morphologic study of 34 nervous system spindle cell neoplasms (16 schwannomas, 9 meningiomas, 9 neurofibromas).
- Staining techniques included H&E, Prussian-blue stain (for iron), and immunohistochemistry for Factor VIII-related antigen and albumin.
- Analysis focused on vascular proliferation, hyalinization, hemosiderin deposition, and albumin leakage.
Main Results:
- Schwannomas showed focal vascular proliferation, hyalinized vessels, and frequent hemosiderin deposition.
- Prussian-blue staining for iron was positive in most schwannomas, unlike neurofibromas and meningiomas.
- Albumin leakage into the interstitium confirmed vascular permeability in schwannomas, absent in others.
Conclusions:
- Schwannomas possess distinct vascular abnormalities, including proliferation and impaired integrity.
- Vascular changes like hyalinization and hemosiderin may aid in differentiating schwannomas.
- These vascular alterations might precede or contribute to the development of 'ancient changes' in schwannomas.
