Clear cell renal cell carcinoma with Paneth-like cells: Clinicopathologic, morphologic, immunohistochemical, ultrastructural, and molecular analysis of 13 cases

• Published in: Annals of diagnostic pathology 2019-08, Vol.41, p.96-101
• Main Authors: Kojima, Fumiyoshi, Bulimbasic, Stela, Alaghehbandan, Reza, Martinek, Petr, Vanecek, Tomas, Michalova, Kvetoslava, Pivovarcikova, Kristyna, Michal, Michal, Hora, Milan, Murata, Shin-ichi, Sugawara, Emiko, Rogala, Joanna, Limani, Rinë, Hes, Ondrej
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adult; Aged; Carcinoma, Renal Cell - pathology; Clear cell renal cell carcinoma; Female; Humans; Immunohistochemistry; Kidney; Kidney Neoplasms - pathology; Male; Middle Aged; Next generation sequencing; Paneth Cells - pathology; Paneth-like cells
• ISSN: 1092-9134; 1532-8198
• DOI: 10.1016/j.anndiagpath.2019.05.012

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (CRCC) is well known for its intratumoral heterogeneity. Paneth-like cells (PLC) have been reported in variable organs (i.e., hepatobiliary, genitourinary, and female genital tract). In genitourinary system, it is possible to find PLCs in epididymis, urinary bladder and prostate. The objective of this study was to assess PLC in CRCCs 13 CRCCs with prominent PLC (CRCCPLC) were selected out of 1378 CRCCs in our registry. The tumors were analyzed using morphologic, immunohistochemical, ultrastructural, and molecular genetic methods. CRCCPLCs were mostly of low histologic grade (12/13). Immunohistochemical profile was compatible with classic CRCC. PLC constituted 10 to–70% of the tumor volume (mean 17.7%, median 10%). PLCs did not express neuroendocrine markers (chromogranin, synaptophysin, CD56, INSM-1). Ultrastructurally, PLCs were filled by membrane bounded vesicles of various sizes and were compatible with secretory type of cells. VHL mutation was found in 9/9 cases, and LOH3p was found in 6/8 analyzable cases. Conclusions: PLC morphology can variably be present in “classic” CRCC, even in a substantial proportion. Ultrastructurally, PLCs have all attributes of secretory cells. Preliminary follow up data showed that these tumors may not be associated with aggressive clinical behavior. •Paneth-like cells were reported in variable organs.•We assessed PLC in clear cell renal cell carcinomas.•13 CRCCs with prominent PLC were selected.•Ultrastructurally, PLCs have attributes of secretory cells.•Follow up data indicated non-aggressive behavior.