Prostatic carcinoma, microcystic variant

Definition

• A deceptively bland variant of invasive Gleason pattern 3 prostatic carcinoma that is morphologically characterized by dilated (i.e., microcystic) acini (up to 10 times the size of a normal Gleason pattern 3 cancer gland) and bland cytology.

• Could also be considered one of the histological patterns of pseudohyperplastic prostate adenocarcinoma.

• Frequently present adjacent to or admixed with more conventional low-grade prostatic adenocarcinoma.

• Morphologic overlap with cystic atrophy and may be overlooked in prostate cores and even radical prostatectomies.

Clinical features