Essential role of ultrastructural examination for spindle cell oncocytoma: Case report of a rare neoplasm and review of the literature

Ultrastruct Pathol. 2016;40(2):121-4. doi: 10.3109/01913123.2016.1157662.

Abstract

Spindle cell oncocytoma (SCO) is an extremely rare neoplasm of the sellar region recognized as a distinct benign histopathological subtype of pituitary tumors in the 2007 World Health Organization classification of tumors of the central nervous system. The morphology of its neoplastic cells (spindle cells and granular eosinophilic cytoplasm) is common to several other lesions so that immunohistochemistry, together with ultrastructural examination, becomes essential in solving this differential diagnosis. Despite being labeled as benign, recurrence is described. Herein, we report a case of SCO in a 77-year-old man and discuss the diagnostic difficulties, ultrastructural aspects, and prognostic factors.

Keywords: Oncocytoma; pituitary; spindle cell.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adenoma, Oxyphilic / chemistry
  • Adenoma, Oxyphilic / surgery
  • Adenoma, Oxyphilic / ultrastructure*
  • Aged
  • Biomarkers, Tumor / analysis
  • Biopsy
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Male
  • Microscopy, Electron*
  • Pituitary Neoplasms / chemistry
  • Pituitary Neoplasms / surgery
  • Pituitary Neoplasms / ultrastructure*
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor