The value of intercluster single cell streaks, triplet signet ring cells, and a two‐cell population in urine small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma

Abstract

Doublet and triplet single‐cell nuclear moulding, crush artifacts, intercluster single‐cell streaking and a two‐cell population of small dark cells and large pale cells are helpful cytological clues to detect small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma in voided urine.

An Approach to Nonurothelial Malignancies of the Urinary Bladder in Urine Cytology

“…8A, B) in which nuclear molding may be apparent. 66,67 In some cases, extensive degeneration increases the proportion of cells displaying pyknotic nuclei and apoptotic debris, which may lead to misinterpretation as an inflammatory infiltrate if other morphologic features suggestive of malignancy (mitotic figures, large cells, background necrosis) are not recognized in the sample. 67,68 While these morphologic features may raise the concern for involvement by a SCNC, there could be a high degree of morphologic overlap with CUC.…”

“…In urine specimens, malignant cells are typically seen in a single-cell dispersion pattern but can be seen in variably cohesive clusters or rosettes (Figs. 8A, B) in which nuclear molding may be apparent 66,67. In some cases, extensive degeneration increases the proportion of cells displaying pyknotic nuclei and apoptotic debris, which may lead to misinterpretation as an inflammatory infiltrate if other morphologic features suggestive of malignancy (mitotic figures, large cells, background necrosis) are not recognized in the sample 67,68…”