Small cell carcinoma of cervix: 3 cases report and review of literature

Objective To investigate the clinicopathological features,immunohistochemical characteristics of small cell carcinoma of the cervix(SCCC) and its behaviour.Methods Three 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 abnormal vaginal bleeding 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.The foci of squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma were identified in 2 cases.Immunohistochemical studies showed immunoreactivity for neuroendocrinic markers,such as NSE,CHG-A and Syn.Three patients stained positive for at least two neuroendocrine markers.Treatments included surgery,radiation,chemotherapy,or a combination of them.Two patients died of metastasis of carcinoma during follow-up of two years. Conclusions SCCC is a rare and highly malignant tumor with distinct pathological features.Immunohistological staining may be helpful in diagnosis of SCCC.It is aggressive with early metastases and has a poor prognosis.