Granular Cell Tumor in the Cervical Region; A Case Report.

A 40-year-old female consulted our hospital complaining of frontal neck swelling and pain. Topographical imaging suggested a preoperative diagnosis of benign thyroid tumor (left lobe). On 24th Jan. 1996, a left thyroid lobectomy was performed. Histologically, the tumor was diagnosed as a granular cell tumor based on intraoperative examination of the specimen. Immunohistochemical examinations showed positive PAS, S-100 protein and NSE reactivity in the cytoplasm of the tumor cells. Electronmicroscopic findings showed autophagosomes. On the basis of these findings, the tumor was diagnosed as a benign granular cell tumor. Granular cell tumors are commonly found in the tongue, skin and subcutaneous regions. Tumors arising near the thyroid gland are rare. So far, only one case has been reported in Japan. Discussions of this case was made in the context of relevant literature.