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SMARCB1 (INI-1) - Deficient sinonasal carcinoma: Report of two cases
Geetha Vasudevan1, Srilatha Parampalli Srinivas1, Bhavna Nayal1
1Department of Pathology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India.
Abstract:
SMARCB1 (INI-1)-deficient sinonasal carcinoma is a rare, poorly differentiated carcinoma defined by complete loss of tumor suppressor gene SMARCB1 (INI-1) within the neoplastic cell nuclei demonstrated by the immunohistochemical stain. SMARCB1 (INI-1) gene inactivation has been implicated in the pathogenesis of a diverse group of malignant neoplasms that tend to share "rhabdoid" morphology. SMARCB1 (INI-1)-deficient sinonasal carcinoma was first reported by Agaimy et al. in 2014. These tumors are often basaloid with focal rhabdoid differentiation, prominent necrosis, increased mitotic activity, and aggressive behavior. Other than being INI-1 and NUT negative, they are positive for pancytokeratin and express variable immunoreactivity for squamous markers like p63 and neuroendocrine markers like synaptophysin. Most patients present with locally advanced disease and hence a combination of chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery is usually recommended.
Insights
SMARCB1 (INI-1)-deficient sinonasal carcinoma is a rare cancer characterized by the loss of the SMARCB1 tumor suppressor gene. This aggressive tumor often presents at an advanced stage, requiring multimodal treatment including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genetics
- Pathology
Background:
- SMARCB1 (INI-1)-deficient sinonasal carcinoma is a rare malignancy.
- It is defined by the loss of the SMARCB1 (INI-1) tumor suppressor gene.
- This gene inactivation is linked to various malignant neoplasms with rhabdoid morphology.
Observation:
- First reported in 2014, these tumors exhibit basaloid features with focal rhabdoid differentiation.
- Histological findings include prominent necrosis and increased mitotic activity, indicating aggressive behavior.
- Immunohistochemical staining reveals loss of SMARCB1 (INI-1) in neoplastic cell nuclei.
Findings:
- These carcinomas are negative for INI-1 and NUT but positive for pancytokeratin.
- Variable reactivity for squamous markers (p63) and neuroendocrine markers (synaptophysin) is observed.
- Most patients present with locally advanced disease.
Implications:
- The aggressive nature and advanced presentation necessitate aggressive treatment strategies.
- Multimodal therapy combining chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery is typically recommended.
- Understanding the molecular basis (SMARCB1 deficiency) aids in diagnosis and potential therapeutic targets.
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