Review of juxtaglomerular cell tumor with focus on pathobiological aspect

Diagn Pathol. 2011 Aug 26:6:80. doi: 10.1186/1746-1596-6-80.

Abstract

Juxtaglomerular cell tumor (JGCT) generally affects adolescents and young adults. The patients experience symptoms related to hypertension and hypokalemia due to renin-secretion by the tumor. Grossly, the tumor is well circumscribed with fibrous capsule and the cut surface shows yellow or gray-tan color with frequent hemorrhage. Histologically, the tumor is composed of monotonous polygonal cells with entrapped normal tubules. Immunohistochemically, tumor cells exhibit a positive reactivity for renin, vimentin and CD34. Ultrastructurally, neoplastic cells contain rhomboid-shaped renin protogranules. Genetically, losses of chromosomes 9 and 11 were frequently observed. Clinically, the majority of tumors showed a benign course, but rare tumors with vascular invasion or metastasis were reported. JGCT is a curable cause of hypertensive disease if it is discovered early and surgically removed, but may cause a fatal outcome usually by a cerebrovascular attack or may cause fetal demise in pregnancy. Additionally, pathologists and urologists need to recognize that this neoplasm in most cases pursues a benign course, but aggressive forms may develop in some cases.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Juxtaglomerular Apparatus / pathology*
  • Juxtaglomerular Apparatus / surgery
  • Kidney Neoplasms / epidemiology
  • Kidney Neoplasms / genetics
  • Kidney Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Kidney Neoplasms / surgery
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Prognosis