Sclerosing hemangioma of lung: A close cytologic mimicker of pulmonary adenocarcinoma

Abstract

We report the fine‐needle aspiration biopsy findings of sclerosing hemangioma of lung occurring in a 40‐yr‐old Chinese woman. Cytologically, there were hyalinized stromal tissue fragments admixed with clusters of nondescript mononuclear tumor cells. Scattered foamy macrophages and red blood cells were also noted in the background. Focal papillary and acinar configurations were seen. However, some of the epithelial cells show nuclear pleomorphism with nuclear hyperchromasia, prominent nucleoli, and occasional intranuclear inclusions. Mitotic activity was virtually absent. The cytologic atypia present may result in misdiagnosis of well‐differentiated pulmonary adenocarcinoma, especially bronchioloalveolar carcinoma. Recognition of the subtle cytologic differences, together with cell block examination, immunocytochemistry, and proper clinicoradiologic correlation, is crucial for an accurate preoperative diagnosis. Diagn. Cytopathol. 25:316–320, 2001.