Morphological variations of scar-related and spontaneous endometriosis of the skin and superficial soft tissue: A study of 71 cases with emphasis on atypical features and types of müllerian differentiations - 19/08/11
Pilsen and Brno, Czech Republic, and Saint Petersburg, Russia
Abstract |
Background |
Seventy-one cases of scar-related and spontaneous endometriosis of the skin and superficial soft tissue were studied, with a focus on atypical features and types of müllerian differentiation. All patients were women, whose ages ranged from 22 to 65 years (median, 32 years).
Methods |
Histological, immunohistochemical, and electronmicroscopic studies were performed. Clinical information was ascertained via a questionnaire solicited by the referring physicians.
Results |
All types of metaplastic changes of müllerian epithelium were found, including tubal (61%), oxyphilic (15%), hobnail (10%), mucinous (4%), and papillary syncytial (3%) metaplasia. Atypical features included reactive atypia (23%) and atypical mitoses in glandular epithelium (6%). Stromal changes included smooth muscle metaplasia (31%), decidualization (<1%), stromal endometriosis (<1%), and elastosis (<1%). Other features recognized included lipoblast-like cells (15%), some with intranuclear inclusions; atypical/degenerative myocytes (10%); spiral arteries (4%); and perineurial invasion (<1%). CD56 staining identified large granular lymphocytes in 15 of 20 studied specimens. Ultrastructurally, these cells showed cytoplasmic granules, some with a delimiting membrane.
Limitations |
This study utilizes tissue specimens that mainly were received as consultations; therefore some inherent selection bias exists. Specimens were randomly selected for CD56 immunostaining, leading also to potential sampling error.
Conclusions |
All types of müllerian metaplasia can be encountered in cutaneous endometriosis. In addition, so-called atypical features described in endometriosis affecting other anatomic sites may be seen in the skin. Some features may represent a diagnostic pitfall.
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Funding sources: None. Conflicts of interest: None declared. |
Vol 57 - N° 1
P. 134-146 - juillet 2007 Retour au numéroBienvenue sur EM-consulte, la référence des professionnels de santé.
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