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Epithelioid sarcoma in FNAB smears
1Department of Cytopathology, Institute of Oncology, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
Diagnostic Cytopathology
|December 1, 1994
Summary
Fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) of epithelioid sarcoma reveals a distinct cytomorphologic pattern. Immunocytochemistry aids in differentiating this malignant tumor from other neoplasms, enabling definitive diagnosis from FNAB smears.
Area of Science:
- Cytopathology
- Surgical Pathology
- Oncology
Background:
- Epithelioid sarcoma is a rare soft tissue sarcoma.
- Morphological differentiation from other tumors can be challenging.
- Fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) is a valuable diagnostic tool.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the cytomorphologic features of epithelioid sarcoma in FNAB smears.
- To evaluate the utility of immunocytochemistry in diagnosing epithelioid sarcoma.
- To compare FNAB findings with ultrastructural characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Review of eleven epithelioid sarcoma FNAB smears.
- Cytomorphologic analysis of cell morphology and arrangement.
- Immunocytochemical staining for vimentin and cytokeratin on Papanicolaou-stained smears.
- Ultrastructural examination of eight cases.
Main Results:
- Ten cases showed a consistent pattern of dissociated epithelioid-like cells with eccentric nuclei.
- One case presented with spindle cells, resembling fibrohistiocytic tumors.
- Immunocytochemistry revealed positive reactions for both vimentin and cytokeratin in all six tested cases.
- Ultrastructural analysis provided further characteristic features.
Conclusions:
- Epithelioid sarcoma exhibits a distinct cytomorphologic picture on FNAB smears.
- Immunocytochemistry, combined with clinical data, is crucial for definitive diagnosis.
- FNAB is a reliable method for diagnosing epithelioid sarcoma.