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Malignant granular cell tumor in the thoracic wall: A case report
Shengnan Gao1, Bin Xing2,3,4,5, Sun Lichao3,4,5,6
1Department of Clinical Laboratory, Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Beijing, China.
Frontiers in Oncology
|October 7, 2022
Summary
Granulosa cell tumors (GCTs) are rare, typically benign tumors. This case highlights a malignant GCT of the thoracic wall, demonstrating rapid progression despite benign histological features.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Granulosa cell tumors (GCTs) are rare neoplasms originating from neural/Schwann cells, with a predilection for specific anatomical sites.
- Malignant GCTs are exceptionally rare, accounting for 1%-2% of all GCTs, and GCTs of the thoracic wall are even rarer, predominantly benign.
Observation:
- A case of malignant Granulosa Cell Tumor (GCT) of the thoracic wall is presented in an Asian male.
- The tumor exhibited rib invasion and pleural metastasis, indicating aggressive behavior.
- Microscopic examination showed cells with granular cytoplasm and minimal atypia, a histological pattern often associated with benign GCTs.
Findings:
- Despite seemingly benign histological characteristics, the GCT displayed rapid clinical progression.
- The tumor was clinically malignant, characterized by local invasion and distant metastasis.
- This case underscores the discrepancy that can exist between histological appearance and clinical behavior in GCTs.
Implications:
- This report expands the understanding of rare malignant GCT presentations, particularly in the thoracic wall.
- It emphasizes the importance of considering clinical progression when evaluating GCTs, even with seemingly benign histology.
- Further research into the molecular mechanisms driving aggressive GCT behavior is warranted.
