Preleukemic granulocytic sarcomas of the gastrointestinal tract. Report of two cases

Granulocytic sarcoma, or chloroma, is a tumor composed of immature cells of the myeloid series, which usually occurs as a secondary manifestation of acute myelocytic leukemia. Unique problems in interpretation of these lesions arise when the leukemic picture is absent in peripheral blood and bone marrow. In these cases, granulocytic sarcoma is usually misinterpreted as "reticulum cell sarcoma". Two cases of this neoplasm involving the small intestine and stomach, are reported. Signs of leukemia appeared terminally. The value of cytochemical stains in the differential diagnosis and the possible benefits of early recognition and treatment are emphasized.