Cutaneous ganglioneuroma associated with overlying hyperkeratotic epidermal changes: a report of 2 cases

Am J Dermatopathol. 2008 Dec;30(6):600-3. doi: 10.1097/DAD.0b013e3181834acd.

Abstract

The occurrence of primary cutaneous ganglioneuroma is rare. We report 2 separate cases of primary cutaneous ganglioneuroma, both of which are associated with prominent overlying hyperkeratosis. The first case was in a 38-year-old woman with overlying verrucous keratosis. The second case was in a 93-year-old man with epidermal changes reminiscent of a seborrheic keratosis. Histologically, both lesions were composed of a proliferation of hyperplastic nerve fibers with spindled Schwann cells and axons with intermingled ganglion cells. Immunohistochemistry for neurofilament highlighted nerve fascicles; S100 protein displayed the associated Schwann cells, and neuron-specific enolase stained the interspersed ganglion cells. Variation in immunohistochemical staining was present between the 2 cases. A review of the literature demonstrates variable immunohistochemical staining of ganglion and Schwann cells in prior cases. Familiarity with these findings is important in establishing a diagnosis. The significance of the associated hyperkeratosis remains speculative.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Cell Proliferation
  • Female
  • Ganglion Cysts / metabolism
  • Ganglion Cysts / pathology
  • Ganglioneuroma / complications*
  • Ganglioneuroma / diagnosis*
  • Ganglioneuroma / pathology
  • Humans
  • Keratosis / complications*
  • Keratosis / diagnosis*
  • Keratosis / pathology
  • Male
  • Phosphopyruvate Hydratase / metabolism
  • S100 Proteins / metabolism
  • Schwann Cells / metabolism
  • Schwann Cells / pathology
  • Skin Neoplasms / complications*
  • Skin Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Skin Neoplasms / pathology

Substances

  • S100 Proteins
  • Phosphopyruvate Hydratase