Sarcomatoid Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Penis - a Report of Two Cases

Abstract

Background: Sarcomatoid (spindle cell) squamous cell carcinoma is a rare, highgrade, aggressive tumor consisting of the squamous cell carcinoma admixed with the malignant spindle cell (sarcomatoid) elements. These tumors are relatively uncommon in the genitourinary system and particularly in the penis.

Materials and methods: Two sarcomatoid squamous cell carcinomas of the penis were diagnosed in our hospital between 2012 and 2015. Clinical histories, pathology reports, hematoxylin and eosin-stained and immunohistochemical slides were reviewed.

Results: In both cases, the tumors presented as single, pedunculated, extensive masses with surface ulceration; histology study showed a mixture of high-grade squamous cell carcinoma component and spindle cell neoplastic component in different proportions. Immunohistochemical stains of CK AE1/AE3, p63 and CK903 showed positive immunoreactivity in both components in both cases. Vimentin was positive in spindle cell component and negative in squamous cell carcinoma areas.

Conclusion: Sarcomatoid squamous cell carcinoma of the penis is an uncommon tumor of this site with aggressive behavior and bad prognosis which might be related to the delay in medical examination and diagnosis. A correct and thorough morphological study is of great importance for the staging of the disease, treatment and follow up of patients.

Keywords: penis; sarcomatoid squamous cell carcinoma.