Splenic lymphangioma: luminal surface ultrastructure; a scanning electron microscopic study

Area of Science:

• Pathology
• Vascular Biology
• Pediatric Surgery

Background:

• Splenic lymphangiomas are rare benign tumors originating from lymphatic vessels.
• Diagnosis often occurs incidentally during abdominal surgery or imaging.
• Understanding the ultrastructure is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.

Observation:

• A splenic lymphangioma was surgically removed from a 16-year-old female patient.
• Light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were employed for detailed analysis.
• The tumor presented as numerous vascular channels, some containing clotted lymph.

Findings:

• SEM identified a uniform endothelial lining within the vascular channels.
• Two distinct endothelial cell morphologic types were observed: smooth-surfaced cells and cells with microvilli.
• These findings contribute to the understanding of lymphatic endothelial cell diversity.

Implications:

• The detailed ultrastructural analysis aids in differentiating lymphangiomas from other vascular lesions.
• SEM provides valuable insights into the cellular composition of splenic lymphangiomas.
• This case study enhances the literature on the SEM of lymphatic malformations.