Cytomorphology of intraparenchymal mesenchymal chondrosarcoma in frontal lobe: Report of a case

Abstract

lntracranial mesenchymal chondrosarcomas (MC) and especially those that originate in brain parenchyma, are rare. A diagnosis of MC can be challenging to make on squash cytology. We describe cytomoprhology of solid cystic extraskeletal intraparenchymal MC in a 22-year-old male. The tumor was located in left frontal lobe. Cytology results demonstrated oval-to-spindled cells with high nuclear-to-cytoplasmic ratios. Cells showed perivascular arrangement. Small foci of basophilic extracellular matrix with scattered malignant chondroid component were also seen. Histologic examination of lesion demonstrated biphasic tumor, with prominent small cell population and focal atypical cartilage. Whole body survey of the patient was performed and no other extracrainal lesion was identified in the patient. The patient developed recurrence within 2 months. To the best of authors' knowledge this is the first case report describing cytomorphology of intraparenchymal MC. We discuss the differential diagnosis in light of relevant literature. Copyright © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.