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[A case of giant cell-rich gliosarcoma]
K Asano1, T Sekiya, N Shimamura
1Department of Neurosurgery, Hirosaki University School of Medicine.
No to Shinkei = Brain and Nerve
|November 22, 1997
Summary
This study details a rare gliosarcoma case with unique giant cells. Immunohistochemistry suggests an epithelial origin followed by malignant astrocytic and sarcomatous tumor growth.
Area of Science:
- Neuropathology
- Oncology
Background:
- Gliosarcoma is a rare and aggressive primary brain tumor.
- Characterized by a biphasic pattern of glial and sarcomatous elements.
- The origin of giant cells in gliosarcoma remains debated.
Observation:
- A 75-year-old woman presented with acute neurological deficits.
- Imaging revealed a ring-enhancing mass in the right parieto-occipital lobe.
- Gross pathology showed a dual-structured tumor with distinct surface and core characteristics.
Findings:
- Microscopic examination revealed numerous giant cells resembling ganglion cells, negative for GFAP but positive for EMA.
- Surrounding spindle-shaped cells were positive for GFAP and vimentin.
- Immunohistochemical and electron microscopy studies supported a dual-origin theory.
Implications:
- Challenges the traditional single-origin theory of gliosarcoma.
- Suggests an initial epithelial hamartoma followed by malignant astrocytic tumor and sarcomatous component.
- Highlights the importance of detailed immunohistochemical analysis in understanding complex brain tumors.