Slowly Growing Nodule on the Trunk: Cutaneous Granular Cell Tumor

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Pathology
• Oncology

Background:

• Granular cell tumors (GCTs) are uncommon soft-tissue neoplasms, often presenting as slow-growing nodules.
• Their typical presentation can lead to delayed diagnosis as they are not always included in differential diagnoses.
• GCTs are of neural origin and are characterized by cells with granular cytoplasm.

Observation:

• A 58-year-old female presented with a large (5x4 cm) slowly growing mass on her left waist over 4 years.
• Histopathological examination confirmed a diagnosis of GCT.
• The neoplastic cells displayed characteristic granular eosinophilic cytoplasm and positive staining for S100, neuron-specific enolase, and CD68.

Findings:

• The cutaneous GCT, despite its large diameter, was localized to the trunk.
• Clinically and histopathologically, the tumor did not exhibit malignant features.
• Fifteen months post-surgery, the patient remained free of local recurrence or metastases.

Implications:

• This case underscores that large cutaneous GCTs on the trunk can be benign, even if size is typically associated with malignancy.
• Accurate histopathological diagnosis is crucial for appropriate patient management and prognosis.
• Further research into the behavior of large GCTs in different locations may refine diagnostic criteria.