2004 Volume 43 Issue 6 Pages 380-385
Background: Central neurocytoma (CN) is a relatively new tumor concept, and few cases on its cytology have been reported. We report a case of CN arising in the right lateral ventricle, focusing on cytological features of intraoperative imprint and squash preparations.
Case: A 28 year-old man seen at the emergency department for a blow to the head was found in head computed tomography to have a tumor accompanying calcification in the right lateral ventricle. Magnetic resonance imaging showed cysts inside the tumor. In the intraoperative imprint cytology preparations, tumor cells were observed singly or in loose clusters, some forming rosettes, against a background of a finely fibrillated substance palely staining light green. In some areas, cells with perinuclear halos and clearly defined cell membranes were observed. Intraoperative histological examination showed tumor cells with round to oval nuclei, poorly defined cell membranes, and cytoplasm palely stained by eosin. Intraoperative cytological and histological findings suggested CN. Postoperative immunostaining and electron microscopy confirmed this diagnosis.
Conclusion: To rapidly diagnose CN, intraoperative cytology in combination provides findings not demonstrated in frozen sections. By evaluating cytological and histological findings together and considering clinical findings, CN can be rapidly diagnosed.
