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An unusual leiomyosarcoma of the uterus containing osteoclast‐like giant cells
Author(s) -
Darby A. J.,
Papadaki Lucienne,
Beilby J. O. W.
Publication year - 1975
Publication title -
cancer
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.052
H-Index - 304
eISSN - 1097-0142
pISSN - 0008-543X
DOI - 10.1002/1097-0142(197508)36:2<495::aid-cncr2820360228>3.0.co;2-i
Subject(s) - giant cell , osteoclast , leiomyosarcoma , pathology , ultrastructure , uterus , histiocyte , anatomy , medicine , electron microscope , neoplasm , physics , receptor , optics
An unusual variant of a poorly differentiated leiomyosarcoma of the uterus, containing osteoclast‐like giant cells, is described. Areas of the resected tumor bore a close resemblance to giant cell tumor of bone. It is postulated that these giant cells, as well as the osteoclast‐like giant cells reported in a number of tumors of other tissues, originate from the monocyte/histiocyte group of cells. The diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma was possible only after the tumor had been examined in the electron microscope. The ultrastructural features are consistent with a smooth muscle origin of the neoplasm; the final assessment is based on the relative proportions and frequency of such structures as: bundles of myofilaments with focal densities, marginal densities, pinocytotic vesicles, and an external lamina.