Granular Cell Tumor is a rare benign neoplasm that typically originates from the cells of the nervous system, although it can occur in various tissues throughout the body. This tumor is composed of granular cells, which are large polygonal cells with abundant granular cytoplasm. These cells are believed to derive from Schwann cells, which are responsible for supporting and protecting nerve cells.
Granular Cell Tumors usually present as single, painless nodules and can occur in any part of the body, although they predominantly appear in the skin, oral cavity, and subcutaneous tissues. While the exact causes of these tumors remain unknown, they are not considered hereditary or associated with malignancy.
Histologically, Granular Cell Tumors appear as well-demarcated nodules with abundant granular cytoplasm, centrally placed round nuclei, and a characteristic absence of blood vessels within the tumor mass. Immunohistochemistry stains can confirm the diagnosis, as these tumors typically show positive staining for S-100 protein, which is a biological marker found in Schwann cells.
Although usually benign, rare cases of malignant transformation have been reported. Treatment of Granular Cell Tumor usually involves complete surgical excision, which generally leads to a favorable prognosis. In cases where the tumor presents in an inaccessible or delicate location, other treatment options, such as radiation therapy, may be considered. Regular follow-up is crucial to monitor for any potential recurrence or malignant transformation of the tumor.
