Korean J Med.  2011 Jan;80(1):82-86.

A Case of Undifferentiated Carcinoma with Osteoclast-Like Giant Cells in the Pancreas

• Yang SY
• Do JH
• Oh IS
• Lee HW
• Choi CH
• Chang SK
• Park ES

Abstract

Undifferentiated carcinomas with osteoclast-like giant cells are rare pancreatic and periampullary neoplasms that mimic giant cell tumors of bone morphologically. Recently, we experienced an osteoclast-like giant cell tumor arising in the tail of the pancreas. A 76-year-old male was admitted with epigastric discomfort and indigestion. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) and abdominal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a 3x3-cm mass containing necrotic and hemorrhagic areas in the tail of the pancreas. A distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy were performed. Histological examination showed tumor cell components consisting of mononuclear pleomorphic cells admixed with osteoclastic giant cells. The final diagnosis was undifferentiated carcinoma with osteoclast-like giant cells with ductal adenocarcinoma in the pancreas.

Keyword

Pancreas; Osteoclast-like giant cells; Undifferentiated carcinoma

MeSH Terms

Adenocarcinoma
Aged
Carcinoma
Cellular Structures
Dyspepsia
Giant Cell Tumors
Giant Cells
Humans
Hydrazines
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Male
Osteoclasts
Pancreas
Pancreatectomy
Splenectomy
Hydrazines