Primary Small Cell Carcinoma of Cervix:A Clinicopathologic Analysis of 5 Cases

Objective To investigate the clinicopathological features,immunohistochemical characteristics of small cell carcinoma of the cervix(SCCC)and its behaviour.Methods Five cases of SCCC were investigated with light microscopy and immunohistochemical staining.Clinical follow up was performed,and the related literature was reviewed.Results Blood spotting or abnomal vaginal blooding with cervical masses was the most common clinical presentation.Histologically,the neoplastic cells appeared small,round in solid sheets,scant cytoplasm,hyperchromatic neclei and absence of nucleoli.Numerous mitotic figures and extensive necrosis were also common findings.Three of five cases were pure small cell carcinoma.The foci of squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma were identified in two cases.Immunohistochemically,the tumors were immunoreactive to CK and Syn(five cases),CgA and HPV(three cases),NSE(four cases),S-100(two cases).Fellow up revaled death in all four patients.Conclusions Primary small cell carcinoma of the cervix is a rare and highly malignant tumor with distinct pathological features.Immunohistological staining may be helpful in diagnosis of SCCC.CK,CgA and Syn may be useful markers in the diagnosis of primary small cell carcinoma of the cervix.