A Case with Gaucher-Like Cells

Area of Science:

• Pathology
• Microbiology
• Pediatric Oncology

Background:

• Gaucher-like cells (GLC) are morphologically similar to Gaucher cells and can be found in diverse pathological conditions.
• Distinguishing GLC from true Gaucher cells is crucial for accurate diagnosis and patient management.
• Enlarged lymph nodes and intraabdominal masses can present diagnostic challenges, sometimes mimicking malignancies like lymphoma.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a pediatric case presenting with massive cervical lymphadenopathy and an intraabdominal mass.
• To investigate the nature of Gaucher-like cells identified in fine needle aspiration (FNA) material.
• To highlight the diagnostic utility of FNA in evaluating enlarged lymph nodes.

Main Methods:

• A 4.5-year-old boy presented with significant lymphadenopathy and an intraabdominal mass.
• Fine needle aspiration (FNA) was performed on an enlarged lymph node.
• Microscopic examination of the aspirate identified numerous Gaucher-like cells (GLC).
• Ziehl-Neelsen staining was used to identify acid-fast bacteria within the GLC.

Main Results:

• The FNA material from the enlarged lymph node showed a significant presence of Gaucher-like cells (GLC).
• Ziehl-Neelsen staining revealed numerous acid-fast bacteria within these GLC.
• The findings suggest an infectious etiology mimicking other conditions.

Conclusions:

• Gaucher-like cells (GLC) can be a manifestation of infections, not exclusively lysosomal storage disorders.
• Fine needle aspiration (FNA) is a valuable and minimally invasive tool for the initial evaluation of enlarged lymph nodes, especially when unusual cellular morphology is observed.
• Identification of acid-fast bacteria within GLC underscores the importance of specific stains in diagnosing infectious diseases presenting with lymphadenopathy.