Endometrial atypical (bizarre) stromal cells: a potential diagnostic pitfall in biopsy

Pathol Res Pract. 2004;200(9):625-7; discussion 629-30. doi: 10.1016/j.prp.2004.02.013.

Abstract

Atypical stromal cells (ASCs) may be detected in endometrial polyps and, more rarely, in normal endometrium. Owing to their worrisome cytological features, these cells may represent a potential diagnostic pitfall and are often misinterpreted as malignant, particularly in biopsy samples. We report on ASCs in proliferative phase endometrium of a woman who underwent biopsy for vaginal bleeding. Morphological and immunohistochemical features are discussed in detail. The differential diagnosis to endometrial malignant tumors containing atypical mesenchymal cells is provided.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Biopsy
  • Cell Proliferation
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Diagnostic Errors / prevention & control*
  • Endometrial Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Endometrium / pathology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Polyps / pathology
  • Postmenopause
  • Stromal Cells / pathology
  • Uterine Hemorrhage / etiology
  • Uterine Hemorrhage / pathology