Granular cell myoblastomas, also known as granular cell tumors or Abrikossoff tumors, are rare, benign neoplasms that originate from the cells of Schwann, which are found in the nervous system. These tumors are characterized by the presence of granular cells, which are large cells with abundant granular cytoplasm.
Granular cell myoblastomas typically occur in the age group of 30 to 50 years and can affect various parts of the body, including the skin, oral cavity, breast, and respiratory tract. While the exact cause of these tumors is unknown, there is evidence to suggest that they may arise from a malfunction of the Schwann cells.
Clinically, granular cell myoblastomas are usually solitary, slow-growing masses that are painless and non-ulcerated. They are often discovered incidentally or during routine medical examinations. Microscopically, these tumors show a characteristic appearance with large polygonal cells containing eosinophilic granular cytoplasm and round nucleus. Immunohistochemistry studies are commonly performed to confirm the diagnosis, with positive staining for S100 protein being a specific marker for these tumors.
Although granular cell myoblastomas are usually benign, cases of malignant transformation have been reported, although they are extremely rare. Surgical excision is the primary treatment of choice, and in most cases, complete removal of the tumor leads to a good prognosis with no recurrence. However, long-term follow-up is necessary, especially in cases where the tumor has infiltrated surrounding tissues or lymph nodes.
