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Ewing's sarcoma. A light- and electron-microscopic study of 21 cases
The American Journal of Surgical Pathology
|September 1, 1978
Summary
This study analyzed Ewing's sarcoma cell structures, finding glycogen in most primary tumor cells. Findings suggest secondary cells may represent regressing primary cells, supporting a primitive mesenchymal origin for Ewing's sarcoma.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pathology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Ewing's sarcoma is a rare bone and soft tissue cancer.
- The cellular origins and differentiation pathways of Ewing's sarcoma remain incompletely understood.
- Microscopic analysis is crucial for diagnosing and understanding sarcomas.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the fine structure of Ewing's sarcoma cells using light and electron microscopy.
- To compare observed ultrastructural features with existing literature.
- To investigate the relationship between different cell types within Ewing's sarcoma and their potential prognostic significance.
Main Methods:
- Light and electron microscopy were used to examine 21 cases of Ewing's sarcoma.
- Ultrastructural features of "primary" tumor cells and "secondary" reticular cells were documented.
- The presence and abundance of glycogen and microtubules were noted.
Main Results:
- Glycogen was abundant in 53% of primary tumor cells, infrequent in 33%, and rare in 14%.
- Microtubules were observed in association with glycogen in three cases.
- Evidence suggests "secondary" reticular cells are regressing "primary" tumor cells; neither type showed prognostic significance.
Conclusions:
- The ultrastructure of Ewing's sarcoma cells, particularly glycogen content, was characterized.
- "Secondary" reticular cells are likely regressing primary tumor cells.
- The findings support a primitive mesenchymal origin for Ewing's sarcoma, though histogenesis remains unclear.