Signet-ring cell change in adenoid cystic carcinoma: a clinicopathological and immunohistochemical study of four cases.

• Grant number: 13/08802-9
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants - Publications - Scientific article
• Start date: June 01, 2013
• End date: November 30, 2013
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Medicine - Pathological Anatomy and Clinical Pathology
• Principal Investigator: Albina Messias de Almeida Milani Altemani
• Grantee: Albina Messias de Almeida Milani Altemani
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências Médicas (FCM). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Signet-ring cell (SRC) change has not been reported in adenoid cystic carcinomas (ACC). This study describes the clinicopathological and immunohistochemical findings in four cases of ACC with SRCs (ACC-SRC). ACC-SRC is a nonmucin and nonlipid producing phenomenon, possibly related to disturbed differentiation of ductal/luminal cells. This cellular modification in ACC apparently does not change the biological behavior of the tumor but it may cause significant diagnostic problems. (AU)