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Multi-photon Imaging of Tumor Cell Invasion in an Orthotopic Mouse Model of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Published on: July 25, 2011
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Histiocytic sarcoma affecting the oral cavity: a clinical, pathologic and molecular study
Juan Manuel Arteaga Legarrea1, Humberto de Souza Alves1, Roberta Rayra Martins Chaves1
1Department of Oral Surgery and Pathology, School of Dentistry, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
Summary
Oral cavity histiocytic sarcomas are rare, aggressive cancers with poor prognosis. This study identified key clinicopathological and molecular features, including BRAF-V600E mutation in one case.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pathology
- Genetics
Background:
- Histiocytic sarcoma is a rare malignancy with limited understanding of its oral cavity presentation.
- Oral histiocytic sarcomas may indicate systemic disease dissemination.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the clinicopathological, immunohistochemical, and molecular characteristics of oral cavity histiocytic sarcomas.
- To analyze genetic mutations and clinical outcomes associated with this rare cancer.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of three oral histiocytic sarcoma cases from 2000-2023.
- Immunohistochemistry (CD68, CD163, Ki67) and molecular testing (BRAF, KRAS, PIK3CA mutations) were performed.
- Clinical data including demographics, tumor site, treatment, and follow-up were collected.
Main Results:
- Three cases (2 female, 1 male) diagnosed with oral histiocytic sarcoma involving tongue, palate, and gingiva.
- Tumors showed diffuse infiltration of pleomorphic atypical cells with histiocytic markers and high Ki67.
- One case had BRAF-V600E mutation; the other lacked BRAF, KRAS, and PIK3CA mutations. Two patients died within 4-8 months.
Conclusions:
- Oral histiocytic sarcomas are exceptionally rare and aggressive, often presenting as disseminated disease.
- These tumors exhibit poor prognosis, highlighting the need for further research into their biology and treatment.

