Vascular Tumors

Abstract

The common denominator of vascular tumors consists of their endothelial differentiation with a variable capability of forming mature or immature vessels. Although tumors with this morphology have been recognized for many years, there is a considerable degree of confusion regarding their nomenclature and classification. It is proposed that the osseous vascular tumors should be classified in a similar manner to their soft tissue counterparts and it is suggested that this approach should help to clarify the confusion surrounding this topic. The last classification of vascular tumors as proposed in the 2013 WHO is supported by the rapid elucidation of novel, characteristic translocations in the different vascular tumor entities. In the last 5 years, there have been further several important refinements in the classification of vascular neoplasms, along with the identification of novel and recurrent molecular genetic findings broadening the spectrum of available ancillary tests for the surgical pathologist, that better define epithelioid hemangioma, pseudomyogenic hemangioendothelioma, and epithelioid hemangioendothelioma.