Undifferentiated Carcinoma

Mari Mino-Kenudson, MD

Key Facts

Terminology

Malignant epithelial neoplasm with significant component showing no definite differentiation
- Wide range of morphologic findings ranging from pleomorphic epithelioid cells to multinucleated giant cells to spindle cells

Clinical Issues

Macroscopic Features

Large, fleshy mass, often with hemorrhage and necrosis, that invades adjacent organs

Microscopic Pathology

Heterogeneous features consisting of anaplastic giant cell and spindle cell components in varying proportions
Variably present large, benign-appearing, multinucleated osteoclast-like giant cells

This gross photograph of an undifferentiated carcinoma with osteoclast-like giant cells has a soft, fleshy cut surface with prominent hemorrhage

and necrosis

This undifferentiated carcinoma has a prominent sarcomatoid component featuring plump spindle cells in a fascicular pattern.

TERMINOLOGY

Synonyms

Pleomorphic carcinoma, pleomorphic large cell carcinoma, pleomorphic giant cell carcinoma
Undifferentiated carcinoma with osteoclast-like giant cells
- Giant cell tumor of pancreas
- Osteoclast-like giant cell tumor of pancreas

Definitions

Malignant epithelial neoplasm with significant component showing no definite differentiation
- Wide range of morphologic findings ranging from pleomorphic epithelioid cells to multinucleated giant cells to spindle cells
- Multiple patterns often present within same tumor

CLINICAL ISSUES

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