bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pulmonary plasma cell granuloma—an electron microscopic and tissue culture study
Authors: ALVAREZ‐FERNANDEZ E. , ESCALONA‐ZAPATA J.
Published: April 2007

A case of pulmonary plasma cell granuloma studied by electron microscopy and tissue culture is reported. Ultrastructurally, it showed a polymorphic composition in which a variety of inflammatory cells, collagen fibres and capillary vessels were identified. In vitro there was an initial emigration of inflammatory cells, followed by a predominance of fibroblasts and histiocytes. This pattern of growth is similar to that obtained from explants of granulation tissue and gives support to the previously suggested view that these lesions are inflammatory pseudotumours.
Pulmonary vascular disease in 57 necropsy cases of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection
Authors: PETERSEN R.C. , EDWARDS W.D.
Published: April 2007

In a semi‐quantitative necropsy study, total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) was an isolated anomaly in 35 cases and was associated with asplenia and either pulmonary stenosis or pulmonary atresia in 22 cases. A comparison of the two groups showed pulmonary venous obstruction (26% vs. 4%), a small interatrial communication (51% vs. 4%), a patent ductus arteriosus or operative shunt (40% vs. 64%), medial hypertrophy of muscular pulmonary arteries (80 vs. 23%), muscularization of arterioles (80% vs. 23%), capillary engorgement (60% vs. 27%) alveolar wall thickening (29% vs. 0%), interlobular septal oedema (34% vs. 14%), dilated lymphatics (80% vs. 45%), arterialization of pulmonary veins (86% vs. 68%), medial hypertrophy of veins (26% vs. 0%), and venous dilatation (74% vs. 50%). Only one patient, a 5‐year‐old girl with isolated TAPVC, had severe plexogenic pulmonary arteriopathy. In the remainder, the pulmonary lesions were those generally associated with reversible pulmonary venous hypertension; they were most striking in patients with pulmonary venous obstruction, and were least prominent in patients with pulmonary stenosis or puimonary atresia.
Malignant transformation of mucinous ovarian cystadenomas of intestinal epithelial type
Authors: SZYMAŃSKA KRYSTYNA , SZAMBORSKI J. , MIECHOWIECKA NATALIA , CZERWIŃSKI W.
Published: April 2007

We studied 116 benign and 18 borderline malignant mucinous ovarian cystadenomas. Their epithelial lining was compared with normal epithelium of the uterine cervix and that of the small and large intestines, by both light and electron microscopy as well as histochemically. This morphological and histochemical analysis enabled us to subdivide mucinous cystadenomas into cervical, mixed and intestinal epithelial types. The epithelial cells of intestinal type tumours exhibited histochemical reactions very similar to, or identical with, those found in both immature and mature cells of intestinal mucosa. Malignant transformation was found in intestinal type mucinous cystadenomas only. Ultrastructural investigations of six neoplasms (four of intestinal and two of cervical epithelium type) confirmed the results found with the light microscope.
Invasive cribriform carcinoma of the breast†
Authors: PAGE D.L. , DIXON J.M. , ANDERSON T.J. , LEE D. , STEWART H.J.
Published: April 2007

A histological review of 1003 invasive breast carcinomas identified 51 tumours in which the invasive component showed a predominantly cribriform pattern. These separated into two groups; 35 which showed exclusively cribriform or cribriform with a limited extent of tubular invasive elements only, designated ‘classical’ invasive cribriform carcinoma and 16 which also contained areas of less well differentiated invasive carcinoma, designated ‘mixed’ invasive cribriform carcinoma. At follow‐up, 10 to 21 years after diagnosis, none of the 35 patients with classical invasive cribriform carcinoma had died as a result of this initial carcinoma and 30 remained alive. Of the 16 remaining patients, whose tumours showed areas of less well differentiated carcinoma, only six remained alive. However, the adjusted 10 year survival rate of these patients in this mixed group was significantly better than that of invasive carcinoma in Edinburgh. Invasive cribriform carcinoma in its classical form, is a histological subgroup of invasive carcinoma with the same excellent prognosis as that of invasive tubular carcinoma.
Neurofibroma with rhabdomyomatous differentiation: Benign ‘Triton’ tumour of the vagina
Authors: AZZOPARDI J.G. , EUSEBI V. , TISON V. , BETTS C.M.
Published: April 2007

The benign ‘Triton’ tumour is a neural tumour with benign rhabdomyomatous differentiation: it must be distinguished from the better known malignant counterpart. We describe the first case outside the peripheral soft tissues and the first to be studied ultrastructurally. It also represents the second lesion identified in an adult patient.
Interrelationships of calibre persistent artery, chronic ulcer and squamous cancer of the lower lip
Authors: MIKÓ T.L. , MOLNÁR P. , VERECKEI L.
Published: April 2007

Calibre persistent arteries come close to internal and external body surfaces without ramification or reduction of their calibre. In the stomach and jejunum they may give rise to fatal haemorrhage and in the lower lip to a chronic ulcer simulating cancer. In the present case the histological findings suggest a causal connection between an artery of persistent calibre, a chronic ulcer, and squamous cancer of the lower lip.
Papillary serous cystadenoma of borderline malignancy arising in a parovarian paramesonephric cyst. Light microscopic and ultrastructural observations
Authors: CHANDRARATNAM E. , LEONG A.S‐Y.
Published: April 2007

This is the first ultrastructural study of a neoplasm arising in a parovarian Müllerian (paramesonephric) cyst. By light and electron microscopy this tumour bore a close resemblance to the ovarian serous cystadenoma of borderline malignancy. This resemblance to serous neoplasms of the ovary and to other tumours of Müllerian duct derivation was the strongest claim to its origin. Other features which indicated Müllerian origin included the absence of a well‐defined basement membrane, the presence of distinct muscle coats and the relatively large size of the epithelial cells and their nuclei. We suggest that the same prognostic criteria used for ovarian serous tumours might be applicable to the present lesion and conclude that Müllerian adnexal tumours like their Wolffian counterparts can also be identified by their morphological characteristics.
Sarcocystosis in man: a report of two cases
Authors: AGARWAL P.K. , SRIVASTAVA A.N.
Published: April 2007

Two cases of sarcocystis infestation in living humans are reported. Both presented with discharging sinuses; one on the lower extremity, the other gluteal. Microscopical examination of excised sinus tissue revealed characteristic cysts of the parasite. In none of the cases was the parasite's presence previously suspected. The significance of this parasite is discussed in relationship to these and previously reported cases.
Primary ganglioneuroblastoma of the anterior mediastinum in a 61‐year‐old woman
Authors: TALERMAN A. , GRATAMA S.
Published: April 2007

A case of primary ganglioneuroblastoma located in the anterior mediastinum is described. The tumour was found incidentally at autopsy in a 61‐year‐old woman who died of coronary artery thrombosis. There was no evidence of metastases. Histologically the tumour was a ganglioneuroblastoma of the diffuse type. There was no pure neuroblastomatous tissue present and maturation to ganglioneuroma was not observed. Regressive changes like fibrosis and calcification were present. Review of the literature failed to reveal any recorded cases of ganglioneuroblastoma occurring in the anterior mediastinum. Although ganglioneuroblastoma occurs predominantly in children, 24 cases occurring in adults have been reported in the literature.
Nephroblastoma with fibroadenomatous‐like structures
Authors: DELEMARRE J.F.M. , SANDSTEDT B. , TOURNADE M.F.
Published: April 2007

Review of the histological sections of the tumours of 889 patients from the files of the SIOP Nephroblastoma trials and studies has revealed 23 cases with a distinctive growth pattern. Due to the similarity of the histological structures with the architecture of adenofibroma (fibroadenoma) of the ovary we have called this type: nephroblastoma with fibroadenomatous‐like structures (NFS). We have studied the clinical and histopathological factors and correlated them with recurrence‐free survival and actuarial survival and compared them with the whole series of SIOP Nephroblastomas. This subtype appears to be a distinctive clinicopathological entity with favourable prognosis.
Histomorphological study of cellular interactions between stromal and haemopoietic stem cells in normal and leukaemic bone marrow
Authors: ISLAM A. , CATOVSKY D. , GOLDMAN J.M. , GALTON D.A.G.
Published: April 2007

The interactions between haemopoietic and stromal elements are crucial for stem cell proliferation and differentiation. The bulk of this evidence is derived from experiments in rodents and in‐vitro culture studies. We have studied the spatial relationships between the stromal and haemopoietic components and their cellular composition in histological sections of bone marrow (BM) from seven healthy fetuses, 10 normal adults and over 60 patients with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) and chronic granulocytic leukaemia (CGL) at different stages of the disease. During the early developmental stage (16–18 weeks) fetal BM showed focal haemopoiesis with a characteristic spatial localization of haemopoiesis near bony trabeculae and around small blood vessels. In AML following the treatment‐induced hypoplasia, large uniform unilocular fat cells arranged in groups designated ‘structured fat’ developed from scattered multilocular precursor fat cells. Early foci of haemopoietic regeneration were present almost exclusively in areas of structured fat. In the marrow of patients with CGL in blast transformation (BT) treated by intensive therapy and autografting with cryopreserved haemopoietic stem cells, the haemopoiesis was focal. Clusters of regenerating erythroid precursors or of megakaryocytes were seen in intimate contact with marrow sinusoids and granulopoietic precursors in intimate association with small blood vessels and also in close contact with the endosteal surface of bony trabeculae. We conclude that the endosteal cells, fat cells and the vascular endothedial cells comprise the critical non‐haemopoietic stromal elements of human BM. The close associations observed between the regenerating haemopoietic cells and the stromal cells provide strong evidence in support of the existence of a permissive haemopoietic micro‐environment in man and emphasize the structural and functional interrelationships that exists between bone, fat, the microvascular system and haemopoiesis in human bone marrow.
The normal parathyroid and the borderline with early hyperplasia: a light microscopic study
Authors: SAFFOS ROSILIE O. , RHATIGAN R. M. , URGULU S.
Published: April 2007

The light microscopical appearance of the normal parathyroid gland based on an autopsy study of 138 glands from 38 adults without evidence of hyperparathyroidism, is described. It differs from earlier descriptions in that we found less adipose tissue in the glands of many normal adults than had been reported. This observais in keeping with several other recent reports. Other features of the normal gland are also described. This study suggests that at times, a distinction between normal and early hyperplasia cannot be made, especially if the distinction is based solely on the amount of stromal adipose tissue present. Histological features which appear to indicate abnormality are cytological atypia, chief cell nodularity and diminished intracytoplasmic lipid. A gland which is equivocally enlarged but which has minimal stromal adipose tissue and one or more of the above features is most likely to be abnormal.
Characterization of retraction spaces in basal cell carcinoma using an antibody to type IV collagen
Authors: McARDLE J. P. , ROFF B. T. , MULLER H. K.
Published: April 2007

‘Retraction spaces’ observed in 18 of 30 basal cell carcinomas were readily classified into two distinct types using the PAP immunoperoxidase technique and an antibody to human type IV collagen, raised in rabbits. In processing artefacts, true retraction spaces were observed between the epithelial cells and the basal lamina, while in areas of stromal mucinous change, accumulation of mucinous material resulted in clear spaces separating the normal stroma from the overlying basal lamina.
Reticulin and its related structural connective tissue proteins in the rheumatoid synoviume
Authors: SCOTT D. L. , SALMON M. , WALTON K. W.
Published: April 2007

Argyrophilic reticulin fibres are an important component of the rheumatoid synovium and their distribution and that of their individual protein constituents have been studied in synovial biopsies from a series of 29 cases of rheumatoid arthritis. In acutely inflamed synovia they are predominantly found underneath the hyperplastic synovial lining layer and related to the inflammatory cell infiltrate. With developing chronicity the reticulin network is gradually replaced by mature collagen. This histological pattern is mirrored by changes in the individual components of reticulin fibres—fibronectin, the non‐collagenous reticulin component of Pras and Glynn (NCRC) and collagen type III.
A monoclonal antibody, NCRC‐11, raised to human breast carcinoma. 1. Production and immunohistological characterization
Authors: ELLIS I. O. , ROBINS R. A. , ELSTON C. W. , BLAMEY R. W. , FERRY B. , BALDWIN R. W.
Published: April 2007

The production of a mouse monoclonal IgM antibody, NCRC‐11, raised against human breast carcinoma is described. It has been characterized immunohistologically. The antigen recognised has a wide but highly specific distribution in normal tissues, being virtually confined to the surface of certain epithelial cell types. It is found in some forms of epithelial metaplasia and most epithelial malignancies, particularly adenocarcinomas. The heterogeneity of staining in mammary carcinomas is outlined and is of particular interest. The immunohistological staining distribution of NCRC‐11 is similar to other antibodies, including anti‐epithelial membrane antigen, which were raised against human milk fat globule membrane. A competition experiment with some of these antibodies, using a flow cytofluorimeter, showed competition with one antibody, LICR LON/M8.
Eosinophil infiltration in keratoacanthoma and squamous cell carcinoma of the skin
Authors: LOWE D. , FLETCHER C. D. M. , SHAW M. P. , McKEE P. H.
Published: April 2007

The incidence of tissue eosinophilia in keratoacanthoma and in early and late cases of squamous cell carcinoma of the skin has been studied. Eosinophil infiltration of over 10 cells per high power field was found in 80 cases, and was not related to the size, site or aetiology of the lesions in which it was present. In cases where diagnostic difficulty arises between keratoacanthoma and well differentiated, keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma, if tissue eosinophilia is present the lesion is more likely to be malignant. Though in isolation the finding of an eosinophil infiltrate is not diagnostic it should be added to the list of criteria which help to distinguish these lesions. The pattern of tissue eosinophilia in late cases of squamous cell carcinoma was more extensive and there were two cases which showed massive tumour‐associated tissue eosinophilia. This has previously been reported in squamous cell carcinoma at other sites, and may be related to the production of an eosinophilochemotactic factor.
Interdigitating and dendritic reticulum cells in chronic active hepatitis
Authors: BARDADIN K.A. , DESMET V.J.
Published: April 2007

An ultrastructural study of the cytology of piecemeal necrosis in 12 liver biopsies from patients with chronic active (aggressive) hepatitis revealed a variety of cell types. This communication deals with two particular cell types, only observed in areas of severe piecemeal necrosis—interdigitating reticulum cells (IDRCs) and dendritic reticulum cells (DRCs). IDRCs are typical components of T‐cell regions in lymphoid organs. Cells with the characteristics of IDRCs were found in severe piecemeal necrosis at the periphery of portal tracts and in periportal areas. This suggests that areas of periportal piecemeal necrosis are analogous to the T‐cell regions of lymphoid organs during immune reactions. DRCs are typical components of B‐cell regions in lymphoid organs. Cells with the characteristics of DRCs were found in the central parts of portal tracts with follicle‐like aggregations of lymphocytes, as seen in some cases with pronounced piccemeal necrosis. This finding suggest that follicle‐like lymphocytic aggregates in portal tracts are analogous to the B‐cell regions of lymphoid organs during immune reactions. A mesenchymal origin of DRCs is suggested. The finding of IDRCs and DRCs in severe piecemeal necrosis emphasizes the fundamental similarity of immune reactions in the liver to those in lymphoid organs. These data are discussed in relation to immunological findings in chronic active hepatitis.
Silicotic lesions of the bone marrow: histopathology and microanalysis
Authors: EIDE J. , GYLSETH B. , SKAUG V.
Published: April 2007

Silica deposition and characteristic nodular silicotic lesions of the bone marrow, virtually unknown features of silicosis, are described in a case of severe lung silicosis with silicotic granulomas of the liver and spleen. Scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray microanalysis confirmed the presence of quartz and feldspars. The bone marrow lesions included inconspicuous accumulations of silica‐containing macrophages, free silica, slight lymphocyte and plasma cell infiltration, and reticulin fibre formation; and development of slightly larger partly fibrous silicotic nodules, comparable to those of the lung, liver, and spleen. Silicosis must therefore be considered in the differential diagnosis of bone marrow granulomas.
The microvillus in adult jejunal mucosa—an electron microscopic study
Authors: SINCLAIR T.S. , JONES D.A. , KUMAR P.J. , PHILLIPS A.D.
Published: April 2007

The increase in surface area contributed by microvilli per square unit mucosal surface area in the jejunal villus, i.e. amplification factor, has been studied in four normal adults and three adults with treated coeliac disease. Villi were split into three regions, photomicrographs of microvilli were taken from each region and the microvillus amplification factor calculated. The mid‐villus region contributed a significantly greater microvillus amplification factor than either the low or upper regions in all patients studied. In addition surface cell heights were greatest in the low‐ and mid‐villus regions. This suggests that the enterocytes in the mid‐villus region are best adapted for absorption, and that the enterocytes in the upper‐villus regions are undergoing an ageing process.
Gastric parietal cell carcinoma—a newly recognized entity: light microscopic and ultrastructural features
Authors: CAPELLA C. , FRIGERIO B. , CORNAGGIA M. , SOLCIA E. , PINZON‐TRUJILLO Y. , CHEJFEC G.
Published: April 2007

Three cases of gastric parietal cell carcinoma are described. Tumour cells are round to polygonal, with abundant eosinophilic, granular cytoplasm reactive with phosphotungstic acid haematoxylin and Luxol Fast Blue. Ultrastructurally the tumour cells are characterized by abundant mitochondria, tubulovesicles, intracellular canaliculi and intercellular lumina filled with undulated microvilli.
Mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the thyroid
Authors: FRANSSILA K.O. , HARACH H.R. , WASENIUS V‐M.
Published: April 2007

Clinical and morphological features of three cases of primary mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the thyroid are described. The tumours were composed of two cell types. One of these resembled squamous epithelium and ultrastructurally showed tonofilaments and numerous desmosomes. The other cell type contained Alcian blue and mucicarmine positive mucin and, on electron microscopy, showed mucigen granules. Marked stromal fibrosis and psammoma bodies were seen in all tumours. Immunohistochemical studies showed that the tumour cells were negative for thyroglobulin. A few calcitonin‐containing cells were seen in one metastatic tumour. One tumour showed, in addition to the histological features of mucoepidermoid carcinoma, anaplastic areas with obvious transition between the two histological patterns. The same thyroid also had a small thyroglobulin positive papillary carcinoma in the opposite lobe. All tumours presented lymph node metastases In two cases the primary tumour was confined within the thyroid capsule but that with anaplastic areas invaded surrounding structures. This patient died 13 months after diagnosis; the other patients are alive and symptomless one and 10 years since diagnosis. Mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the thyroid appears to be a clinicopathological entity that resembles papillary carcinoma in its natural history. The origin of the tumour is unclear. There is, however, some histological and immunohistological data suggesting that the tumour might be related to the ultimobranchial system although some histological features also appear to favour a common origin with papillary carcinoma.
PGP 9.5, a new marker for human neuroendocrine tumours
Authors: RODE J. , DHILLON A.P. , DORAN J.F. , JACKSON P. , THOMPSON R.J.
Published: April 2007

PGP.9.5 is a soluble protein isolated from brain and is a general marker for neuronal and neuroendocrine tissue. Its function is not known. Until now neurone specific enolase (NSE) has been the only general marker for the paracrine system and tumours derived from it. Seventy‐four neuroendocrine tumours, 17 melanocytic naevi, 51 melanomas and four granular tumours were stained immunohistochemically for PGP 9.5 and NSE. A variety of pulmonary and non‐neuroendocrine tumours were also stained. Two so‐called goblet cell carcinoids of the appendix were included in the series. Using NSE 59/74 neuroendocrine tumours were positive and 58/74 stained for PGP 9.5. In combination 63/74 of these tumours were positive for either NSE or PGP 9.5 or both. Staining for PGP 9.5 was better for demonstration of nerves in routinely processed material than was staining for NSE. Twenty‐one out of 43 primary melanomas stained for PGP 9.5 and 36 showed staining for NSE. Only two of eight metastatic melanomas stained for PGP 9.5 while seven of these eight stained for NSE. Six of 17 melanocytic naevi stained for PGP 9.5 and five stained for NSE. All four granular cell tumours stained for PGP 9.5 and NSE. Both ‘goblet cell carcinoids’ of the appendix were negative for NSE and PGP 9.5. Fifteen out of 32 pulmonary cancers showed staining for either marker and no non endocrine tumour showed any specific staining. Staining for PGP 9.5 is a valuable additional probe in the exploration of the paracrine system and the diagnosis of tumours arising from it.
Liver cell dysplasia and hepatocellular carcinoma: a histoiogical and immunohistochemical study
Authors: RONCALLI M. , BORZIO M. , DE BIAGI G. , SERVIDA E. , CANTABONI A. , SIRONI M. , TACCAGNI G.L.
Published: April 2007

Liver cell dysplasia (LCD) was found in 28 (60%) of 47 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC); 22 (79%) of them had associated liver cirrhosis. LCD was more frequently observed in posthepatitic cirrhosis (82%) than in the other forms. Carcino‐embryonic antigen (CEA), alpha‐ 1‐antitrypsin (AAT) and alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP), as demonstrated by the peroxidase‐antiperoxidase method, were similarly expressed both in normal and in dysplastic cells. Hepatitis B surface antigen was found in eight cases (17%), six of which were associated with LCD. HBsAg was rarely found in dysplastic cells and frequently displayed a peculiar perinuclear pattern. The possible preneoplastic role of LCD is stressed.
Primary lymphoma of the breast
Authors: TELESINGHE P. U. , ANTHONY P. P.
Published: April 2007

Four cases of lymphoma of the breast are described seen over a period of 2 years amongst 362 cases of breast carcinoma and one of carcinosarcoma. All four were diffuse non‐Hodgkin's lymphomas, two of IgM‐Kappa secreting follicle centre cell and two of histiocyte origin. Routine histological and enzyme histochemical methods were unhelpful but the application of a panel of antisera for the demonstration of immunoglobulin heavy and light chains, lysozyme, alpha‐1‐antitrypsin as well as carcinoembryonic antigen and epithelial membrane antigen, enabled a confident diagnosis to be made. Primary lymphoma of the breast may not be a rare disease and the possibility exists that it is misdiagnosed as anaplastic carcinoma as indeed two of these cases were on the initial biopsies. Correct diagnosis is essential so that appropriate treatment may be applied.
In‐situ neoplasia in squamous cell carcinoma of the parotid. A case report
Authors: LEADER MARY , JASS J. R.
Published: April 2007

This case report demonstrates the origin of a primary squamous cell carcinoma of the parotid gland in squamous metaplasia of the parotid ducts. Comparison is made between parotid ductal intraepithelial neoplasia and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. The clinical importance of establishing the primary origin of these tumours and the need for extensive tissue sampling is emphasized.
Histogenesis of post‐mastectomy angiosarcoma—an ultrastructural study
Authors: McWILIAM L. J. , HARRIS M.
Published: April 2007

An example of post‐mastectomy angiosarcoma was studied by electron microscopy to determine its histogenesis. Unequivocal evidence of endothelial differentiation was found in well and poorly differentiated areas. Positive staining for factor VIII related antigen and negative staining for epithelial membrane antigen further confirmed that the tumour was a true angiosarcoma rather than a peculiar form of carcinomatous metastasis.
Renal cholesterol granulomas: identification and morphological pattern of development
Authors: NAST C.C. , COHEN A.H.
Published: April 2007

Cholesterol granulomas are infrequent and rarely described renal lesions occurring usually in the interstitium, characterized by clusters of foreign body giant cells containing ingested cholesterol crystals. Over a seven‐year period, we observed them in 5 of 789 (0.6%) renal biopsies from patients with nephrotic syndrome of varying glomerulopathies. Four patients had renal insufficiency at the time of biopsy, while the fifth developed it within three months. To define the lesions we studied the morphogenesis of cholesterol granulomas by light and electron microscopy. Initially small cholesterol crystals formed in tubular epithelium; the crystals enlarged and were released into tubular lumina where they elongated or were passed in the urine. Further luminal growth caused the crystals to become lodged at some point in the nephron, distort and destroy tubule cells, and pierce through basement membranes with subsequent exposure to interstitial monocytes and formation of granulomas. It is likely these morphological abnormalities evolve from lipid disturbances in the nephrotic syndrome.
Eosinophilic angiocentric fibrosis of the upper respiratory tract: a mucosal variant of granuloma faciale? A report of three cases
Authors: ROBERTS P.F. , McCANN B.G.
Published: April 2007

Three patients with an unusual stenosing lesion affecting the upper respiratory tract are described. The lesion involved the mucosa of the nasal septum and lateral nasal wall in two cases and the mucosa of the sub‐glottic region of the larynx in one. The lesion leads to thickening of the sub‐mucosal connective tissues by an usual pathological process. It begins as a focal peri‐vascular sub‐epithelial exudate of eosinophils accompanied by collections of plasma cells and lymphocytes without fibrinoid necrosis. These foci progress to form extensive areas of peri‐vascular fibrosis showing a characteristic angiocentric whorling with an ‘onion‐skin’ pattern. This process leads to thickening and matting of the mucosa which becomes adherent to the underlying structures. As fibrosis progresses, the lympho‐plasmacytic component regresses but the eosinophils remain. The fibrosis does not resolve and the consequent stenosis requires surgical relief. No other site appears to be affected by this process, but one case was associated with granuloma faciale. The cause is unknown. We have given the term ‘eosinophilic angiocentric fibrosis of the upper respiratory tract’ to this condition to encompass its cardinal features.
Systemic lymphadenopathy (LAS) in intravenous drug abusers. Histology, immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy: pathogenic correlations
Authors: BARONI C.D. , PEZZELLA F. , STOPPACCIARO A. , MIROLO M. , PESCARMONA E. , VITOLO D. , CASSANO A.M. , BARSOTTI P. , NICOLETTI L. , RUCO L. P. , UCCINI S.
Published: April 2007

In the present study we have evaluated the histological, immunohistochemical, ultrastructural and cell surface phenotypic features of lymph nodes from 19 intravenous drug abusers and two homosexual men with persistent lymphadenopathy syndrome and from six control patients. Our investigation has demonstrated that the lymphadenopathy of drug abusers is characterized by: (a) specific histological features with evidence of evolution from an initial hyperplastic‐reactive to a late regressive‐destructive stage; (b) T‐cell surface phenotype distribution similar to that in the peripheral blood of homosexuals; (c) peculiar infiltration of the germinal centres by T8+ cells and by S‐100+, T6+ interdigitating reticulum‐like cells; (d) electron microscopic features indicating the presence of virus bodies in lymph node cells and in the intercellular spaces. These data suggest that the lymphadenopathy of drug abusers and homosexuals are similar pathological conditions with characteristic features which allow histological differentiation of this entity from those found in other viral infections.
Dilated (congestive) cardiomyopathy: a syndrome of severe cardiac dysfunction with remarkably few morphological features of myocardial damage
Authors: ROSE A.G. , BECK W.
Published: April 2007

A review of 76 endomyocardial biopsies and 54 autopsies of patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) revealed features of hypertrophy and degenerative changes associated with long‐standing hypertrophy. Long‐term survivors had significantly heavier heart weights. Short‐term survivors had heavier than normal right ventricular weights. No pathological findings supportive of a previous viral myocarditis, persistent slow virus infection or autoimmune process were observed. Hearts of autopsied DCM patients showed no significant difference from controls with regard to interstitial mononuclear cells. Morphometry failed to detect any difference in the fibrous tissue component between the DCM and control patients. Microscopic findings suggest that the cardiac failure of DCM is due to a potentially reversible functional abnormality. The cause of this is unknown, but the morphology suggests that future research should be directed by the premise that DCM represents a toxic‐metabolic defect‐deficiency state.
An evaluation of enzyme histochemistry in the diagnosis of childhood rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: VARIEND S. , LOUGHLIN M.A.
Published: April 2007

Six rhabdomyosarcomas were assessed by means of a battery of enzyme histochemical methods. The reactions were compared with those of a small number of other tumours belonging to the small‐cell tumour category. Four of the rhabdomyosarcomas were positive for myophosphorylase and acetylcholinesterase. Myoblasts were strongly reactive for adenosine triphosphatase at alkaline pH and after acid pre‐incubation, whereas the small undifferentiated neoplastic cell of the four alveolar rhabdomyosarcomas showed also discernible cytoplasmic reaction, but only after acid pre‐incubation. Other tumour categories revealed positive staining for adenosine triphosphatase with acid pre‐incubation but the degree of reaction was minimal by comparison. Other enzyme reactions were variable and, generally, did not distinguish between different tumour categories. It is concluded that enzyme histochemistry has a potential role in the diagnostic evaluation of the small cell tumour and should be included in the growing list of special techniques that may assist the pathologist confronted with this problem.
The splenic red pulp; a histomorphometrical study in splenectomy specimens embedded in methylmethacrylate
Authors: VAN KRIEKEN J.H.J.M. , TE VELDE J. , HERMANS J. , WELVAART K.
Published: April 2007

The anatomy and pathology of the splenic red pulp was studied in three‐dimensional reconstructions of methylmethacrylate embedded blocks of tissue obtained after splenectomy, as well as by morphometrical analysis of a large number of specimens. The sinuses of the spleen form a plexus of anastomosing vessels with remarkable buds. Capillaries end as sheathed capillaries in the cord tissue, the ‘filtering’ area, but a large proportion of the red pulp cords appear to be ‘non‐filtering’. These might form part of the lymphatic compartment, which is separate from the white pulp and its extension along the capillaries. This area has not yet been described in man. The change in the volume and structure of the various components of the red pulp were studied in 60 controls and in cases of traumatic rupture, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, aplastic anaemia, autoimmune haemolytic anaemia, congenital spherocytosis, splenic congestion, and Hodgkin's disease. Significant differences were found in the volume of filtering and non‐filtering areas, the size of the sinus compartment, and the degree of vascularization; these differences were only partially expected, for instance in disorders with excessive erythrocyte sequestration. A decrease of the ‘non‐filtering’ area in Hodgkin's disease might indicate an unknown aspect of this disease. In agreement with our previous paper on the amount of white pulp, spleens removed because of traumatic rupture and those incidentally removed during abdominal surgery may not be combined as a single control group, because of significant and probably functional differences in the composition also of the red pulp.
Reflections on notochordal differentiation arising from a study of chordomas
Authors: HEATON J. M. , TURNER D. R.
Published: April 2007

This study of thirteen cases of chordoma serves to emphasize the occurrence of three different histological patterns; classical, seven; chondroid, three; and intermediate or mesenchymal, three. The study also suggests that more adequate sampling of these tumours detects the chondroid variant more readily. These varying patterns of differentiation in tumours of notochordal origin suggest that the parent tissue may have the potential to develop along similar lines in the embryo. Thus mesenchymal and cartilaginous tissue formed from notochordal cells could contribute to the formation of the nucleus pulposus and inner portion of the intervertebral disc cartilages. This concept contrasts with the previously held view that the notochord atrophies at an early stage in embryonic development.
Amyloidosis localized to the lower respiratory tract: probable immunoamyloid nature of the tracheobronchial and nodular pulmonary forms
Authors: DA COSTA P. , CORRIN B.
Published: April 2007

Seven patients with localized nodular pulmonary amyloidosis and four with tracheobronchial amyloidosis are presented and the pathological features described. The congophilia of these forms of amyloid is resistant to potassium permanganate, compatible with it representing immunoamyloid. This, together with the associated intense lymphocytic and plasma cell infiltration suggests a local inflammatory aetiology.
Expression of MHC Class II antigens by oesophageal epithelium in herpes simplex oesophagitis
Authors: GEBOES K. , RUTGEERTS P. , STESSENS L. , VANTRAPPEN G. , DESMET V.
Published: April 2007

An immunoperoxidase technique with monoclonal antibodies for the identification of lymphocyte subsets and MHC Class II antigens was applied to oesophageal biopsies from two patients with herpetic oesophagitis. Oesophageal epithelial cells were found to express the MHC Class II antigen. The inflammatory infiltrate of the lamina propria was composed of both B lymphocytes and T lymphocytes.
Human lung tumours: a correlation of antigenic profile with histological type
Authors: GATTER K.C. , DUNNILL M.S. , PULFORD K.A.F. , HERYET A. , MASON D.Y.
Published: April 2007

Fifty‐four human lung tumours have been immunostained with a large panel of monoclonal antibodies including reagents against cytokeratins, prekeratins, epithelial membrane antigen (EMA), carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and neural antigens. These results have been compared with the histological types of tumour using the current WHO classification scheme. The most striking finding of this study was the considerable overlap of antigenic profile between different histological types of tumour. This suggests that there may be a greater underlying similarity between different histological categories of lung tumour than has hitherto been assumed. Secondly it was evident that immunostaining highlighted areas of different morphology within many tumours emphasizing the heterogeneous differentiation patterns seen in lung cancers. The present study supports the viewpoint that lung tumours arise from a common stem cell and that these neoplasms represent a single tumour with a tendency to differentiate along one or more pathways.
The characterization of two monoclonal anti‐keratin antibodies and their use in the study of epithelial disorders
Authors: PULFORD K.A.F. , GATTER K.C. , MASON D.Y.
Published: April 2007

The present paper describes the production and characterization of two monoclonal antibodies, K20 and K92. Immunohistological staining showed these two antibodies to be specific for keratinizing epithelium. However, whereas K20 stained all layers of the epidermis K92 reacted with only the suprabasal epidermal layers. Immunoblotting studies with preparations of keratins from both the non‐cornified (i.e. the basal, spinous and granular layers) and cornified (stratum corneum) layers of epidermis showed that K20 recognized the 46, 48, 50, 55, 56, 56.5, 59, 61, 62, 64, 65, 66 and 67 kd bands, of which the 50 and 46 kd bands appeared to be masked in tissue sections. In contrast, antibody K92 was more restricted in its activity, recognizing only the 55 and 56 kd bands strongly. These antibodies were used in the study of various epithelial disorders and revealed alterations in the epithelial intermediate filament expression in both benign and malignant disease processes.
Selective sparing of enterochromaffin cells in graft versus host disease affecting the colonic mucosa
Authors: LAMPERT I.A. , THORPE P. , VAN NOORDEN S. , MARSH J. , GOLDMAN J.M. , GORDON‐SMITH E.C. , EVANS D.J.
Published: April 2007

Graft versus host disease affecting the large bowel causes destruction of the crypt epithelium. There is a selective sparing of enterochromaffin cells in the majority of cases. As a consequence, single as well as small clumps of enterochromaffin cells are to be seen in the sites formerly occupied by the destroyed crypt epithelium. The reason for this phenomenon is unclear, but it may be related to the fact that the enterochromaffin cells are end‐stage and non‐proliferating cells. This is useful diagnostically. However, cytotoxic drugs or irradiation must be excluded as the cause of the mucosal damage to bowel as there are theoretical reasons to expect that a similar phenomenon will be seen after these forms of therapy.
Changing views on chronic hepatitis
Authors: SCHEUER P. J.
Published: April 2007

The histological classification of chronic hepatitis is reviewed. The relative importance of piecemeal necrosis and of lobular necrosis in the progression to cirrhosis is assessed. Recent advances in virological and serological aspects of acute hepatitis are outlined and the importance of concomitant infection with more than one virus is discussed. The pathologist cannot assess prognosis on a histological basis alone without other clinical and serological information.
Clear‐cell carcinomas of thyroid gland: a clinicopathological study of 13 cases
Authors: SCHRÖDER S. , BÖCKER W.
Published: April 2007

Thirteen primary thyroid clear‐cell carcinomas and eight thyroid metastases of renal carcinomas are described. A broad variety of features is shown to be responsible for this follicle cell phenotype, some of which also occur in renal carcinomas. In biopsy specimens these two conditions can only be distinguished by immunohistochemistry. Clinical follow‐up disclosed that in the papillary and follicular categories of thyroid cancer the biological behaviour of clear‐cell tumours exhibits no significant difference to their non clear‐cell counterparts. In the case of eight follicle cell carcinomas, various samples were available for study. These revealed some striking variations in histology at different stages, and even during the same stage, of disease. Both reversal of clear cell change and transitions towards other kinds of metaplasia occurred. Morever, maintenance of follicle cell function was documented in several of these lesions by estimations of serum thyroglobulin levels and radioiodine scans. On the basis of these findings the concept of regarding the clear‐cell variant as a distinct subtype of thyroid cancer is refuted. Previous statements on the causal mechanism of clear‐cell change are discussed and it is suggested that metaplastic transformation accounts for this phenomenon in at least some instances of this heterogeneous condition.
Differentiation towards cartilage and bone in a primary tumour of pleura. Further evidence in support of the concept of mesodermoma
Authors: DONNA A. , BETTA P. G.
Published: April 2007

A case of primary pleural malignant tumour is reported and its histological features described including histogenetic factors. The histological pattern was predominantly and typically biphasic (both epithelial and sarcomatous) with foci of sarcomatous cartilaginous differentiation and osteoid formation reproducing an embryonal pattern of enchondral ossification. This provides supportive evidence for the use of the term ‘mesodermoma’ to identify primary tumours of serous membranes and to the concept of identification of mesothelium with embryonal mesoderm.
Immunocytochemical characterization of 10 pancreatic tumours, associated with the glucagonoma syndrome, using antibodies to separate regions of the pro‐glucagon molecule and other neuroendocrine markers
Authors: HAMID Q.A. , BISHOP ANNE E. , SIKRI K.L. , VARNDELL I.M. , BLOOM S.R. , POLAK JULIA M.
Published: April 2007

Histological diagnosis of neuroendocrine tumours can be hampered by their lack of peptide or amine immunoreactivity. In order to assess the usefulness of a range of specific and general markers of neuroendocrine differentiation, 10 pancreatic endocrine tumours, associated with high levels of circulating glucagon, were studied using histology, histochemistry, immunocytochemistry and electron microscopy. All cases showed immunoreactivity for one or other of the peptides derived from pro‐glucagon, although only seven were found to contain immunoreactive pancreatic glucagon. The presence of secretory granules in eight of the tumours was demonstrated by electron microscopy, argyrophilia or chromogranin immunoreactivity. Not only was neuron specific enolase positively immunostained in all the tumours, thereby revealing their neuroendocrine nature, but also the intensity of the immunostain was higher in four of the five malignant ones than in the rest of the cases. Pancreatic polypeptide was present in non‐glucagon cells in six out of 10 cases. Our results emphasise the importance of the use, not only of general histochemical and immunocytochemical tests but also antibodies to all possible derivatives of the precursor form of the active tumour product in the diagnosis of possible endocrine tumours. In this way, any abnormal molecular forms of the peptide synthesized by tumour cells with altered synthetic and secretory mechanisms may be detected.
Dermal nerve sheath myxoma: a study of three cases
Authors: FLETCHER C.D.M. , CHAN J.K‐C. , McKEE P.H.
Published: April 2007

Three cases of dermal nerve sheath myxoma have been studied by light microscopy, histochemistry and immunohistochemistry. The pertinent literature has been reviewed. This lesion, which is a rare benign tumour of probable nerve sheath origin, arises most often in young adults and shows a predeliction for females. Histologically it has a characteristic appearance. Histochemically, the heteroglycan content of the mucoid matrix is more in keeping with a cartilaginous lesion. The histogenesis and differential diagnosis are discussed.
Microwave‐stimulated diffusion for fast processing of tissue: reduced dehydrating, clearing, and impregnating times
Authors: BOON M.E. , KOK L.P. , OUWERKERK‐NOORDAM E.
Published: April 2007

In this paper we describe a method of preparing tissue blocks for paraffin sections within 30 min. The method is based on microwave‐stimulated diffusion reducing the dehydrating, clearing, and impregnating times by a factor of 48. The developed technique was inspired by the experimentally observed sizable temperature‐dependence of viscosity and other transport properties of liquids. It is clear that, by considering the theoretical aspects of diffusion and by analysis of the influence of the used chemicals in different tissue depths, histotechnical results can be optimized. The histotechnical microwave results are light‐microscopically excellent and indistinguishable from those of the well‐performed ‘classical’ method. The nuclear size of several cell types hardly differs in both methods. The new method is valuable in particular for individual cases in which a fast diagnosis is asked for, and in which a frozen‐section diagnosis is thought to be too unreliable. In addition, this method can be used in small research laboratories processing small quantities of histological material. The only equipment needed to prepare tissue blocks of optimal quality is the microwave oven.
Immunohistochemistry of primary gastrointestinal lymphomas: a study of 76 cases
Authors: MIR R. , KAHN L.B. , SELZER G.
Published: April 2007

A retrospective study of 76 primary gastrointestinal lymphomas utilizing an avidin: biotinylated horseradish peroxidase complex (ABC) technique demonstrated 22 B‐cell lymphomas, including two associated with alpha‐heavy chain disease. Seven cases were classified as true histiocytic lymphomas based on a positive reaction for one or more of three histiocytic enzyme markers utilized, predominantly alpha‐1‐antitrypsin and alpha‐1‐antichymotrypsin. However, in 20 cases, an intense admixture of reactive histiocytes was noted and these cells stained preferentially for the enzyme, lysozyme. Twenty cases, which stained for both kappa and lambda light chains and positively or negatively for albumin, could not be classified and 27 cases failed to stain with any of the antisera utilized.