Pigmented cells in adenolymphoma (Warthin's tumor)

Abstract

A study of a series of adenolymphomas showed pigmented cells in the lymphoid stroma in 85% of the patients. The pigmented cells contained light brown cytoplasmic pigment and manifested sudanophila, acid fastness, Ag reduction capacity, PAS [periodic acid Schiff] positivity and yellow autofluorescence in UV light. The morphology, histochemical reactions and autofluorescence suggest that the pigmented cells are macrophages containing ceroid derived from breakdown of damaged organelles of the epithelial tumor cells. These cells may play a role in the elimination of undigestable pigment material present in the cystic spaces of the tumor.