SMALL-CELL ANAPLASTIC CARCINOMA OF THE PROSTATE - REPORT OF A CASE WITH POSITIVE URINE CYTOLOGY

A case of small-cell anaplastic carcinoma of the prostate, occurring i n an 82-year-old man with prior prostatic adenocarcinoma, is reported. The exfoliated tumor cells in the urine were seen singly or in loose aggregates with molding. They showed scant cytoplasm and slightly pleo morphic, hyperchromatic nuclei with inconspicuous nucleoli. By electro n microscopy the tumor consisted of primitive epithelial cells without glandular or neuroendocrine differentiation. The tumor pursued a high ly aggressive course, and the patient died of metastatic disease 4 mo after the diagnosis. (C) 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.