Mucin-secreting cellular ependymoma: A light and electron microscopy study

Mucin accumulation in ependymomas is thought to be limited to the myxopapillary variant and represents an important diagnostic feature. Similarly, signet-ring cells in ependymomas have been shown by electron microscopy to represent microrosette instead of mucin secretion. This study describes an infratentorial ependymoma largely composed of mucinous areas and signet-ring cells. The ependymal nature of mucin-secreting cells was confirmed by ultrastructural analysis. This case widens the variable spectrum of ependymal morphology. The value of electron microscopy in differentiating central nervous system neoplasms showing mucous secretion is stressed.