Chromophobe
Chromophobe refers to a type of cell that is characterized by its poor staining properties with standard histological dyes. The term is most commonly associated with chromophobe renal cell carcinoma, a subtype of kidney cancer, and chromophobe cells found in the pituitary gland.
Chromophobe Cells[edit | edit source]
Chromophobe cells are found in the pituitary gland, specifically in the anterior pituitary. These cells are named for their lack of affinity for standard histological stains, making them appear pale under a microscope. Chromophobe cells in the pituitary are thought to be either degranulated acidophils or basophils, or they may represent a distinct cell type with a unique function.
Chromophobe Renal Cell Carcinoma[edit | edit source]
Chromophobe renal cell carcinoma (ChRCC) is a distinct subtype of renal cell carcinoma (RCC), which is a type of kidney cancer. ChRCC accounts for approximately 5% of all RCC cases. It is characterized by large, pale cells with prominent cell membranes and a perinuclear halo. The tumor cells often have a "plant-like" appearance due to their distinct cell borders.
Histology[edit | edit source]
Under the microscope, chromophobe renal cell carcinoma cells are typically large and polygonal with clear or eosinophilic cytoplasm. The nuclei are often irregular and may have a "raisinoid" appearance. The cytoplasm of these cells does not stain well with hematoxylin and eosin, which is why they are termed "chromophobe."
Genetics[edit | edit source]
Chromophobe RCC is associated with multiple chromosomal losses, particularly of chromosomes 1, 2, 6, 10, 13, 17, and 21. Unlike other types of RCC, chromophobe RCC does not typically involve mutations in the VHL gene.
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
The prognosis for patients with chromophobe RCC is generally better than for those with other types of RCC, such as clear cell RCC. Chromophobe RCC tends to be less aggressive and has a lower rate of metastasis.
Diagnosis and Treatment[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis of chromophobe RCC is typically made through imaging studies followed by a biopsy. Treatment often involves surgical resection of the tumor, and the prognosis is generally favorable if the cancer is detected early.
Also see[edit | edit source]
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