Intraventricular neurocytoma with prominent myelin figures

S H Park1, N Ostrzega, M A Akers

  • 1Department of Pathology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.

Ultrastructural Pathology
|December 3, 1999
PubMed

Insights

This case report details an intraventricular neurocytoma with unique microscopic features resembling myelin sheaths. The tumor exhibited characteristics suggesting dual differentiation into neurocytes and oligodendrocytes.

Area of Science:

  • Neuropathology
  • Neuro-oncology
  • Cellular Biology

Background:

  • Intraventricular neurocytomas are rare tumors typically arising from the septum pellucidum.
  • Understanding the cellular origins and differentiation pathways of these tumors is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Observation:

  • A case of intraventricular neurocytoma presented with distinctive intracytoplasmic concentric lamellar structures on light microscopy.
  • These structures mimicked myelin sheaths and showed eosinophilic cores on H&E staining.
  • Immunohistochemistry revealed reactivity for synaptophysin and neurofilament, but not glial fibrillary acidic protein.

Findings:

  • Electron microscopy confirmed features of neurocytoma, including neurosecretory granules and neurotubules.
  • The prominent lamellar structures were consistent with ultrastructural findings.
  • The tumor's immunophenotype and ultrastructure suggest a potential dual differentiation.

Implications:

  • This case expands the known morphological spectrum of intraventricular neurocytoma.
  • The findings may indicate a progenitor cell capable of differentiating into both neuronal and glial lineages.
  • Further research into the pathogenesis of such tumors could inform therapeutic strategies.