psammoma body

Full Definition

Psammoma bodies are round, laminated, calcified structures that develop within tumor tissue, most commonly seen in meningiomas but also occurring in other neoplasms such as papillary thyroid carcinoma and ovarian serous tumors. In the context of brain pathology, they are characteristic but not pathognomonic of meningiomas. These structures form through dystrophic calcification of necrotic tumor cells and represent a degenerative process. Their identification can support the diagnosis of meningioma in appropriate histological context.

In Context

• "Numerous psammoma bodies were scattered throughout the meningioma." — Brain tumor diagnosis
• "The presence of psammoma bodies supports but does not confirm the diagnosis of meningioma." — Diagnostic interpretation