Glassy Cytoplasm Research Articles

Diagnostic Implication of Skin Tubercles in Choking Case: An Autopsy Case

Tuberous sclerosis is a genetic disorder that affects every organ system, has a diverse presentation and progression, and can be life threatening. The authors encountered a case of a choking death caused by a fragment of rice cake. The deceased was an inmate of a social welfare institution due to mental retardation. The deceased was a 60-year-old male, 170 cm in height, and weighed 74 kg. Autopsy revealed multiple tubercles on the face, undigested food material, including rice cake, in the stomach, cardiomegaly (460 g) with mild coronary atherosclerosis, fatty infiltration into the myocardium, severe pulmonary congestion and edema with froth in the bronchus, and a yellowishbrown mass in each kidney. The brain showed firmness of the cortex in the parietal lobe and blurring of the white-grey matter interface. Histologically, the kidney masses were consistent with angiomyolipoma, and the brain lesion revealed abnormal neurons and astrocytes with a ballooned appearance and glassy cytoplasm, suggestive of tuberous sclerosis. Fatty infiltration and focal interstitial fibrosis were observed in the heart. Toxicology results were negative. The authors determined that the autopsy findings were consistent with tuberous sclerosis and that it may have been the cause of mental retardation, which served as an indirect cause of choking.

Abstract 4863: A retrospective study characterizing 1714 cases of epithelioid cell melanoma

Abstract Introduction: Epithelioid cell melanoma (ECM) is a variant of cutaneous melanoma (CM) typically characterized by large malignant cells with abundant, glassy cytoplasm and large nuclei. ECMs are aggressive neoplasms and tend to have worse prognosis than other subtypes of CM with a higher risk of metastasis1. Few studies have explored the demographic features of ECM and their effects on outcomes. Using data from the National Cancer Database (NCDB), we hope to fill this gap. Methods: This is a retrospective study of patients diagnosed with ECM(ICD-8771) between 2004 and 2020 in the National Cancer Database (NCDB) describing demographic features associated with and tumor characteristics of ECM (N = 1714). Descriptive statistics were collected for all patients with ECM and CM (N = 827623) and were compared using Pearson Chi-Square test. Overall survival was determined by the Kaplan-Meier test. Cox regression analysis was used to determine which factors led to decreased survival in ECM. All statistical tests were evaluated for a significance of P < 0.05. Exclusion criteria included missing data. Results: The cases of ECM were composed mainly of White (96%) males (58.9%), and most had private insurance as the primary payor at diagnosis (50.1%). Greater than half of ECM cases had a primary site of skin on the trunk, upper limbs, or shoulders. Cox regression analysis revealed that patients with ECM treated at integrated network cancer programs had a HR of 0.46 when compared to community centers (95% CI 0.257 - 0.831, P < 0.05). Those with ECM treated at academic programs and comprehensive community cancer programs had hazard ratios of 0.41 (95% CI 0.239 - 0.701, P < 0.05) and 0.49 (95% CI 0.288 - 0.845, P < 0.05) respectively when compared to community programs. Only patients with ECM who had private insurance as primary payor at diagnosis had better outcomes when compared to non-insured with an HR of 0.40 (95% CI 0.225 - 0.714, P < 0.05). In addition, patients with ECM were more likely to be treated at academic centers than patients with CM (55.48% vs 46.95%, P < 0.05). The mean survival of patients with ECM was 12.3 months less than those with CM (141.1 months versus 153.4 months.) Conclusion: Overall survival for patients was better at academic centers, integrated network cancer programs, and comprehensive community cancer programs when compared to community centers. In addition, only patients who had private insurance were found to have better outcomes than those who were uninsured. These findings help shed light on the effects of certain socioeconomic and factors on outcomes in ECM. We hope this study will be a launching point for further inquiry into the causal relationships these factors have on outcomes in this rare cancer. 1. (Russo A, Avitabile T et al. Iris Melanoma: Management and Prognosis. Appl Sci 2020; 10: 8766). Citation Format: Mohammed Al Kurnas, Xinxin Wu, Anusha Mubin, Peter T. Silberstein. A retrospective study characterizing 1714 cases of epithelioid cell melanoma [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 4863.

Activity-dependent glassy cell mechanics II: Nonthermal fluctuations under metabolic activity

The glassy cytoplasm, crowded with bio-macromolecules, is fluidized in living cells by mechanical energy derived from metabolism. Characterizing the living cytoplasm as a nonequilibrium system is crucial in elucidating the intricate mechanism that relates cell mechanics to metabolic activities. In this study, we conducted active and passive microrheology in eukaryotic cells, and quantified nonthermal fluctuations by examining the violation of the fluctuation-dissipation theorem. The power spectral density of active force generation was estimated following the Langevin theory extended to nonequilibrium systems. However, experiments performed while regulating cellular metabolic activity showed that the nonthermal displacement fluctuation, rather than the active nonthermal force, is linked to metabolism. We discuss that mechano-enzymes in living cells do not act as microscopic objects. Instead, they generate meso-scale collective fluctuations with displacements controlled by enzymatic activity. The activity induces structural relaxations in glassy cytoplasm. Even though the autocorrelation of nonthermal fluctuations is lost at long timescales due to the structural relaxations, the nonthermal displacement fluctuation remains regulated by metabolic reactions. Our results therefore demonstrate that nonthermal fluctuations serve as a valuable indicator of a cell’s metabolic activities, regardless of the presence or absence of structural relaxations.

Recurrent PRDM10 Fusions in Superficial CD34-Positive Fibroblastic Tumors : A Clinicopathologic and Molecular Study of 10 Additional Cases of an Emerging Novel Entity.

Superficial CD34-positive fibroblastic tumor (SCD34FT) is a rare mesenchymal neoplasm. The genetic alterations of SCD34FT have yet to be determined. Recent studies suggest it overlaps with PRDM10-rearranged soft tissue tumor (PRDM10-STT). This study aimed to characterize a series of 10 cases of SCD34FT using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS). The study recruited 7 men and 3 women aged between 26 and 64 years. The tumors were located in the superficial soft tissues of the thigh (8 cases), foot, and back (1 case each), ranging in size from 1.5 to 7 cm. The tumors were composed of sheets and fascicles of plump spindled to polygonal cells, with glassy cytoplasm and pleomorphic nuclei. Mitotic activity was absent or low. Common and uncommon stromal findings included foamy histiocytic infiltrates, myxoid changes, peripheral lymphoid aggregates, large ectatic vessels, arborizing capillary vasculature, and hemosiderin deposition. All tumors expressed CD34, and 4 demonstrated focal cytokeratin immunoexpression. In 7 of 9 (77.8%) cases analyzed, FISH identified PRDM10 rearrangement. Targeted NGS revealed a MED12::PRDM10 fusion in 4 of 7 cases tested. Follow-up showed no recurrence or metastasis. We demonstrate recurrent PRDM10 rearrangements in SCD34FT and provide additional evidence of a close relationship to PRDM10-STT.

Superficial CD34-Positive Fibroblastic Tumor: A Clinicopathologic, Immunohistochemical, and Molecular Study of 59 Cases.

Superficial CD34-positive fibroblastic tumor (SCD34FT) is a rare soft tissue neoplasm that shows overlapping features with PRDM10 -rearranged soft tissue tumor ( PRDM10 -STT). This study characterizes the clinicopathologic, immunohistochemical, and molecular features of SCD34FT in a series of 59 cases. Fluorescence in situ hybridization to assess for PRDM10 rearrangement was performed in 12 tumors. Immunohistochemistry for CADM3 and WT1 was performed; CADM3 was also assessed in histologic mimics. Our cohort of 33 male and 26 female had a median age of 42 (range: 14 to 85) years. Tumors were most commonly located in the lower limb (73%), upper limb (8%), back (7%), and supraclavicular region (3%). The median tumor size was 3.0cm (range: 1.0 to 9.0cm). Clinical follow-up in 32 patients (median duration: 26mo) revealed 2 local recurrences (6%). One patient developed regional lymph node metastases which were completely excised. Microscopically, SCD34FT comprised spindled and pleomorphic cells with glassy cytoplasm and occasional granular cell change. Fluorescence in situ hybridization confirmed PRDM10 rearrangement in 3/8 cases (38%). SCD34FT frequently expressed CADM3 (95%) and WT1 (75%). CADM3 was less diffusely positive in pleomorphic hyalinizing angiectatic tumor (40%), pleomorphic liposarcoma (20%), and undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (10%). We corroborate that SCD34FT is indolent but may rarely metastasize to lymph nodes without adverse outcomes. CADM3 and WT1 may be useful in the distinction from histologic mimics. Since cases of SCD34FT with and without demonstrable PRDM10 rearrangement were clinicopathologically indistinguishable, our study further supports that SCD34FT and PRDM10 -STT likely constitute a single entity.

Chondroblastoma of Calcaneum- A Rare Case Diagnosed on Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC)

Chondroblastoma is a rare, giant cell -rich benign neoplasm of bone. Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is gaining acceptance as a convenient and reliable method in preoperative diagnosis of chondroblastoma. Differential diagnosis of chondroblastoma on FNAC include giant cell-rich tumors and tumor like lesions such as aneurysmal bone cyst, giant cell tumor, chondromyxoid fibroma. Preoperative diagnosis of chondroblastoma is mandatory for treatment protocol and prognosis. We describe a case of 18 year old female patient who presented with painful swelling over right heel of one year duration. FNAC smears of swelling stained with Leishman and Giemsa stain showed neoplastic mononuclear chondroblasts showing round to oval nuclei, nuclear indentation, grooving and intranuclear inclusions with abundant vacuolated glassy cytoplasm, chicken wire calcification, multinucleated osteoclast like giant cells and chondromyxoid matrix. Histopathological examination of excised specimen revealed focal areas of mature cartilage with proliferating chondroblasts showing nuclear grooves and numerous giant cells. Thus confirming the diagnosis of chondroblastoma.

Does oxygen affect ageing mechanisms of Pinus densiflora seeds? A matter of cytoplasmic physical state.

During desiccation, the cytoplasm of orthodox seeds solidifies into an intracellular glass with highly restricted diffusion and molecular mobility. Temperature and water content govern seed ageing rates, while oxygen (O2) can promote deteriorative reactions. However, whether the cytoplasmic physical state affects involvement of O2 in seed ageing remains unresolved. We aged Pinus densiflora seeds by controlled deterioration (CD) at 45 °C and distinct relative humidity (RH), resulting in cells with a glassy (11% and 30% RH) or fluid (60% and 80% RH) cytoplasm. Hypoxic conditions (0.4% O2) during CD delayed seed deterioration, lipid peroxidation, and decline of antioxidants (glutathione, α-tocopherol, and γ-tocopherol), but only when the cytoplasm was glassy. In contrast, when the cytoplasm was fluid, seeds deteriorated at the same rate regardless of O2 availability, while being associated with limited lipid peroxidation, detoxification of lipid peroxide products, substantial loss of glutathione, and resumption of glutathione synthesis. Changes in metabolite profiles provided evidence of other O2-independent enzymatic reactions in a fluid cytoplasm, including aldo-keto reductase and glutamate decarboxylase activities. Biochemical profiles of seeds stored under seed bank conditions resembled those obtained after CD regimes that maintained a glassy cytoplasm. Overall, O2 contributed more to seed ageing when the cytoplasm was glassy, rather than fluid.

Lipid Storage and Interferon Response Determine the Phenotype of Ground Glass Hepatocytes in Mice and Humans.

Background and AimsA histopathological hallmark of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is the presence of ground glass hepatocytes (GGHs). GGHs are liver cells that exhibit eosinophilic, granular, glassy cytoplasm in light microscopy and are characterized by accumulation of HBV surface (HBs) proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). More important, GGHs have been accepted as a precursor of HCC and may represent preneoplastic lesions of the liver.MethodsHere we show that the reason for ground glass phenotype of hepatocytes in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and in HBs transgenic mice is a complex formation between HBs proteins and lipid droplets (LDs) within the ER.ResultsAs fat is a main component of LDs their presence reduces the protein density of HBs aggregates. Therefore, they adsorb less amount of eosin during hematoxylin-eosin staining and appear dull in light microscopy. However, after induction of interferon response in the liver LDs were not only co-localized with HBs but also distributed throughout the cytoplasm of hepatocytes. The uniform distribution of LDs weakens the contrast between HBs aggregates and the rest of the cytoplasm and complicates the identification of GGHs. Suppression of interferon response restored the ground glass phenotype of hepatocytes.ConclusionsComplex formation between HBs and LDs represents a very important feature of CHB that could affect LDs functions in hepatocytes. The strain specific activation of the interferon response in the liver of HBs/c mice prevented the development of GGHs. Thus, manipulation of LDs could provide a new treatment strategy in the prevention of liver cancer.

Uncommon Case of Primary Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Rectum

Primary squamous cell cancer (SCC) of the rectum is a rare malignancy of the gastrointestinal tract, making up only 0.1-0.25% of all colorectal carcinomas. Due to its rare incidence, the pathophysiology has not been well described in literature. Here, we report a case of a patient who presented with rectal pain and was ultimately diagnosed with SCC of the rectum. This is a 61-year-old female who initially presented with diarrhea, rectal pain, and weight loss. Colonoscopy was performed but the colonoscope was unable to traverse beyond 8 cm due to a near-fully obstructing circumferential mass. MRI pelvis revealed a partially obstructing rectal mass measuring 7.4 cm, located 6.4 cm above the anorectal junction. Biopsies revealed squamous cell carcinoma undermining rectal mucosa with lymphatic invasion. The immunohistochemical stain was positive for p16 suggesting a HPV-mediated process. Patient underwent a laparoscopic diverting loop sigmoid colostomy due to the obstructing mass and was then recommended to undergo chemoradiation. First described in 1933, most cases of rectal SCC have reported similar presentations to colorectal adenocarcinoma including rectal pain, bleeding and changes in bowel habits. Rectal SCC has been linked to inflammatory bowel conditions such as ulcerative colitis due to proliferation of squamous metaplasia after damage to colonic mucosa. Other cases have found associations to high risk HPV, radiation, HIV, schistosomiasis and amebiasis as inciting etiology. Biopsy of the tumor can yield a definitive diagnosis. Histologically, tumor cells in SCC can be positive for CK 5/6, p40, and p63, and HPV-related carcinomas can be positive for p16. Although similar in presentation to adenocarcinoma of the rectum, SCC has a different epidemiology, etiology, and pathogenesis, thus requiring a different therapeutic approach which includes chemoradiation.1604_A Figure 1. Circumferential obstructing mass in the rectosigmoid colon1604_B Figure 2. T2 weighted MRI axial view. Exophytic solid mass measuring 7.4 cm located 1-5 o'clock of the rectum with extensive involvement of mesolectal fascia involvement bilaterally1604_C Figure 3. Microscopically, the tumor consisted of large, atypical, squamous epithelial cells (A) (H&E, x20). Tumor cells were large with bright eosinophilic, focally glassy cytoplasm and vesicular nuclei with small to medium sized nucleoli (B) (H&E, x40). Immunohistochemically tumor cells were diffusely positive for p40 (C) and showed over expression of p16 (D)

Prediction of Metabolite Concentrations, Rate Constants and Post-Translational Regulation Using Maximum Entropy-Based Simulations with Application to Central Metabolism of Neurospora crassa.

We report the application of a recently proposed approach for modeling biological systems using a maximum entropy production rate principle in lieu of having in vivo rate constants. The method is applied in four steps: (1) a new ordinary differential equation (ODE) based optimization approach based on Marcelin’s 1910 mass action equation is used to obtain the maximum entropy distribution; (2) the predicted metabolite concentrations are compared to those generally expected from experiments using a loss function from which post-translational regulation of enzymes is inferred; (3) the system is re-optimized with the inferred regulation from which rate constants are determined from the metabolite concentrations and reaction fluxes; and finally (4) a full ODE-based, mass action simulation with rate parameters and allosteric regulation is obtained. From the last step, the power characteristics and resistance of each reaction can be determined. The method is applied to the central metabolism of Neurospora crassa and the flow of material through the three competing pathways of upper glycolysis, the non-oxidative pentose phosphate pathway, and the oxidative pentose phosphate pathway are evaluated as a function of the NADP/NADPH ratio. It is predicted that regulation of phosphofructokinase (PFK) and flow through the pentose phosphate pathway are essential for preventing an extreme level of fructose 1,6-bisphophate accumulation. Such an extreme level of fructose 1,6-bisphophate would otherwise result in a glassy cytoplasm with limited diffusion, dramatically decreasing the entropy and energy production rate and, consequently, biological competitiveness.

Detailed analysis of a superficial CD34-positive fibroblastic tumor: A case report and review of the literature.

Superficial cluster of differentiation (CD)34-positive fibroblastic tumor (SCPFT) is a rare mesenchymal neoplasm of borderline malignancy. It is characterized by a superficial location, marked cellular pleomorphism, an extremely low incidence of mitotic figures, and strong CD34 immunohistochemical positivity. As SCPFT is a recently described neoplasm, its characteristics are yet to be fully elucidated. To the best of our knowledge, no detailed studies regarding the imaging findings and cytogenetic analyses of SCPFTs exist. The present study describes a typical case of an 18-year-old man who developed an SCPFT measuring 87×70×80 mm in the subcutaneous adipose tissue of his right thigh. Computed tomography (CT) revealed a well-marginated tumor without calcification, and the enhancement on CT was weak. The tumor demonstrated abnormal uptake on 2-(18F) fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose positron emission tomography (PET), with a maximum standardized uptake value of 2.57. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a clearly defined tumor that exhibited homogeneous low signal intensity on T1-weighted imaging and high signal intensity on T2-weighted imaging, with small lobulated structures. Histopathologically, the tumor was composed of irregular spindle-to-oval-shaped cells with eosinophilic glassy cytoplasm and hyperchromatic, bizarre and pleomorphic nuclei that frequently exhibited intranuclear pseudoinclusions. Immunohistochemically, the tumor cells were diffusely and strongly positive for CD34. The Mindbomb E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 1 labeling index was 8.6%. Ultrastructurally, the tumor cells exhibited irregular or convoluted nuclei with abundant euchromatin-prominent nucleoli. The cytoplasmic organelles consisted of scattered, abundant rough endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, lysosomes, ribosomal rosettes and aggregated lipid globules. Of 18 metaphase cells identified, 2 demonstrated translocation between chromosomes 2 and 5 in cytogenetic studies. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study describing imaging data (CT, MRI and PET-CT) and chromosomal aberrations for SCPFT.

PUB151 The Intricate Management of the Epitheliod Haemangioendothelioma

Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (EH) is a very rare tumor with vascular origin and an epithelioid or histiocytoid appearance. It originates from medium-sized or large veins. In this case the neoplasm thought to be a teratoma and diagnosed postoperatively as an epithelioid hemangioendothelioma with metaplastic bone formation and extra medullary hematopoiesis. Pulmonary function tests as well as Alpha-fetoprotein and Beta hCG were normal. A decision for a robotic excision of the mediastinal mass was made. The procedure was uncomplicated/successful. Macroscopical examination revealed an anterior mediastinal mass covered by adipose tissue contained separate lymph nodes with no lymphovascular invasion, weighting 75g and measuring 72 x 50 x 38mm, with infiltrated areas and calcification. Microscopic examination showed fibro fatty tissue that was diffusely infiltrated by a cellular tumor. The tumor was characterized as uncapsuled, with poorly defined margins and with a predominant cell population of large epitheliod and spindled-shaped cells. These cells formed nodular areas and contained a glassy cytoplasm, which was in areas vacuolated and a prominent pseudonuclear inclusion. There was a low mitotic count and a low proliferative index (Ki67: <5%). Immunohistochemistry demonstrated that these cells expressed the vascular markers CD31 and CD34. Mixed with these cells some osteoclasts were observed as well as some metaplastic ossification. Some hematopoietic elements, hemosiderin laden macrophages, scattered hemosiderin as well as areas of sclerosis and occasional clusters of smooth muscle were also present. No tumor necrosis or mitotic figure was seen. Immunostains like SMA, desmin, myogenin, S100, Melan A, HMB45, AE1-AE3, MNF116, Cam5.2, chromogranin, synaptophysin, CD117, DOG1, EMA and GFAP were negative. Non-specific CD56 was present. Immunohistochemistry performed at RNOH showed that the tumor was diffusively positive for ERG. The pathological stage of the tumor was pT2bNxMx G1. Therapy of EH is difficult, because of the rarity. Surgery is a method that can be considered in unilateral single or multiple nodules. Interferon and chemotherapy containing the use of carboplatin and etoposide have been used in some cases. Bevasizumab, a monoclonal antibody against vascular endothelial factor (VEGF) has been also used in addition to chemotherapy in order to control the expansion of the tumor considering its vascular origin and the high expression of VEGF from it. Radiotherapy has been considered ineffective and has just been used to reduce the pain of bone involvement. Regular follow up with no active therapy has been used for asymptomatic patients with diffuse lesions.

Staying Alive: Molecular Aspects of Seed Longevity

Mature seeds are an ultimate physiological status that enables plants to endure extreme conditions such as high and low temperature, freezing and desiccation. Seed longevity, the period over which seed remains viable, is an important trait not only for plant adaptation to changing environments, but also, for example, for agriculture and conservation of biodiversity. Reduction of seed longevity is often associated with oxidation of cellular macromolecules such as nucleic acids, proteins and lipids. Seeds possess two main strategies to combat these stressful conditions: protection and repair. The protective mechanism includes the formation of glassy cytoplasm to reduce cellular metabolic activities and the production of antioxidants that prevent accumulation of oxidized macromolecules during seed storage. The repair system removes damage accumulated in DNA, RNA and proteins upon seed imbibition through enzymes such as DNA glycosylase and methionine sulfoxide reductase. In addition to longevity, dormancy is also an important adaptive trait that contributes to seed lifespan. Studies in Arabidopsis have shown that the seed-specific transcription factor ABSCISIC ACID-INSENSITIVE3 (ABI3) plays a central role in ABA-mediated seed dormancy and longevity. Seed longevity largely relies on the viability of embryos. Nevertheless, characterization of mutants with altered seed coat structure and constituents has demonstrated that although the maternally derived cell layers surrounding the embryos are dead, they have a significant impact on longevity.

Subependymal giant cell astrocytoma: one case report and review of literature

Background Subependymal giant cell astrocytoma (SEGA) is a rare kind of central nervous system tumor typically occurring in children or adolescents under the age of 20. The tumor commonly arises in the region of the foramen of Monro. Most SEGA patients present distinctive histopathological and immunohistochemical characteristics. Methods The clinical features, histopathological findings and immunohistochemical staining in one case of SEGA were analyzed, and the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of this disease with literature review were studied. Results A 13-year-old female patient presented dizziness, headache and vomiting. Cranial MRI examination showed abnormal signals in the left lateral ventricle near the foramen of Monro, and exhibited heterogeneous enhancement after contrast. Histologically, the tumor was composed of clustering of fibrillated spindle cells and giant cells with abundant cytoplasm, and they were mixed. Glassy hyaline cytoplasm and eccentric vesicular nuclei with prominent nucleoli were frequently seen in the giant tumor cells. Some of the giant cells appeared to resemble gemistocytic astrocytes or ganglion cells. Considerable nuclear pleomorphism and multinuclear cells were frequently seen. There was no significant microvascular proliferation or necrosis. Immunohistochemical findings showed diffuse and strong positivity in tumor cells for vimentin (Vim), and partial positivity for S-100 protein (S-100), epithelial membrane antigen (EMA) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). A few giant tumor cells were positive for synaptophysin (Syn), but negative for neurofilament protein (NF), neuronal nuclei (NeuN) and cytokeratin (CK). Ki-67 labeling index was very low (< 1%). Conclusions SEGA is a benign central nervous system tumor (WHOⅠ). It has distinctive clinical and histopathological features, and should be differentiated from gemistocytic astrocytoma, ependymoma, gangliocytoma and giant cell glioblastoma. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1672-6731.2014.11.014

A Case of Reticulohistiocytoma Mimicking Primary Cutaneous CD 4 Positive Small/medium T-cell Lymphoma

Reticulohistiocytoma is a rare, benign histiocytic proliferation of the skin or soft tissue. A 5-month-old healthy girl visited our clinic for an enlarging nodule on the center of her right palm. The clinical differential diagnosis included xanthogranuloma and primary cutaneous CD4 positive small/medium T-cell lymphoma. Histopathology of the nodule showed abundant eosinophilic and glassy cytoplasm. The nuclei were round to oval shaped, with focal irregular nuclear membrane, and mitotic figures were absent. Immunohistochemical study determined that the cells were positi ve for CD68 but negative for CD1a. She was finally diagnosed with reticulohistiocytoma (solitary epithelioid histiocytoma).

Intraocular astrocytoma and its differential diagnosis.

Astrocytomas arising within the eye display 2 distinct histologies: one comprises interlacing bundles of spindle-shaped cells mixed with a minority of polygonal cells, and the other consists of large cells with abundant glassy cytoplasm (gemistocytic astrocytes) indistinguishable from cells found in subependymal giant cell astrocytoma. Both histologic patterns express glial fibrillary acid protein diffusely, are biologically benign, and are frequently associated with dysgenic syndromes, particularly tuberous sclerosis complex. Tumors with gemistocytes, however, demonstrate a greater propensity for invasive growth. The clinical history may provide information to guide the pathologist in distinguishing intraocular astrocytoma from reactive astrocytosis, conditions that are histologically similar. It remains to be determined if other types of primary intraocular glioma exist or whether some degree of ependymal or oligodendroglial differentiation can accompany reactive astrocytosis.

Fructose transporter Glut5 expression in clear renal cell carcinoma

Renal cell carcinomas (RCC) can be subclassified for general purposes into clear cell, papillary cell, chromophobe cell carcinomas and oncocytomas. Other tumours such as collecting duct, medullary, mucinous tubular and spindle cell and associated with Xp 11.2 translocations/TFE 3 gene fusion, are much less common. There is also a residual group of unclassified cases. Previous studies have shown that RCC has high glycolytic rates, and expresses GLUT transporters, but no distinction has been made among the different subtypes of renal cell tumours and their grades of malignancy. In clear renal cell carcinoma (cRCC) glycogen levels increase, glycolysis is activated and gluconeogenesis is reduced. The clear cell subtype of RCC is characterized histologically by a distinctive pale, glassy cytoplasm and this appearance of cRCC is due to abnormalities in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, and this abnormality results in glycogen and sterol storage. Several isoforms of glucose carriers (GLUTs) have been identified. We show here in a panel of 80 cRCC samples a significant correlation between isoform 5 (GLUT5) and many pathological parameters such as grade of differentiation, pelvis invasion and breaking capsule. GLUT5 expression also appears to associate more strongly with the clear cell RCC subtype. These data suggest a role for the GLUT5 isoform in fructose uptake that takes place in cRCC cells and which subsequently leads to the malignant RCC progression.

Squash cytology of subependymal giant cell astrocytoma: Report of four cases with brief review of literature

Squash cytology description of subependymal giant cell astrocytoma (SEGA) is poorly described in the literature. Objective of this study is to study the cytomorphological features of SEGA in squash smears. Introperative squash smear preparations of four patients of SEGA diagnosed from 2004 to 2010 were reviewed. One to two millimetres of the biopsy material was crushed between two glass slides to make a thin film and fixed in 95% alcohol and stained by haematoxylin and eosin (H&E). Smear cytology diagnoses were correlated with clinical, radiological data and finally with histopathological findings of the tumor specimen. We had four cases (all males; age range 11-15 years; mean age 12.5 years). All tumors were located in the lateral ventricles. The cytological smears in all four cases were cellular and display pleomorohic binucleate to multinucleate tumor cells disposed in cohesive clusters, groups or lying singly. Elongated spindle shaped and strap cells with long thick cell processes were also identified. On squash smears, SEGA can be diagnosed when cytomorphological features are correlated with clinical and radiological finding. The distinct cytomorphological features are cellular smears comprising of pleomorohic binucleate to multinucleate tumor cells with round to polygonal eccentrically placed mildly anisomorphic nuclei, prominent nucleoli, and abundant eosinophilic glassy cytoplasm. Astrocytic fibrillary background, endothelial proliferation, mitosis, and necrosis are lacking.

Relationship between desiccation tolerance and glassy cytoplasm of the cells of rice seed embryos

Relationship between desiccation tolerance and glassy cytoplasm of the cells of rice seed embryos

Giant Cell Hepatitis and Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia Successfully Treated With Rituximab

Giant Cell Hepatitis and Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia Successfully Treated With Rituximab