Primitive neuroectodermal tumor of the uterus - A case report

BACKGROUND: Primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) is a rare tumor derived from fetal neuroectodermal cells. These tumors occur in the central nervous system and in peripheral locations. Histologic diagnosis is the standard s ince most of these tumors are detected at an advanced stage. CASE: A 17-year-old female presented with persistent vaginal bleeding. Phys ical examination revealed a 4-cm, hard, barrel-shaped cervix. A cervicovagi nal smear was obtained. The specimen was hypercellular, with small to mediu m-sized, round, malignant cells. A diagnosis of PNET was made from the hist ologic sections of the surgical specimen. CONCLUSION: When numerous small round cells in a diffuse pattern are seen o n a Pap? smear, the differential diagnosis is long and difficult. However, with careful evaluation of the cytologic features, a few reasonable differe ntial diagnoses can be reached. Furthermore, with liquid-based Pap smears, material is available for immunohistochemical staining to narrow the range even more. Using all resources, including a good clinical history, a cytopa thologist can give the clinician an early diagnosis for intervention and tr eatment.