Spindle Cell Carcinoma
Also written as: SpCC — Spindle Cell Carcinoma
A biphasic or monophasic malignant epithelial neoplasm of the oral cavity in which tumour cells assume a sarcomatoid spindle cell morphology, also termed sarcomatoid carcinoma.
Full Definition
Spindle cell carcinoma (SpCC) is a variant of squamous cell carcinoma characterised by the presence of malignant spindle-shaped cells that may resemble a sarcoma, hence the synonym 'sarcomatoid carcinoma'. Despite the mesenchymal appearance, the spindle cells retain epithelial lineage markers (e.g., cytokeratin, p40) detectable by immunohistochemistry. This entity most commonly arises on the lip, tongue, and alveolar ridge. Editors reviewing manuscripts must not conflate spindle cell carcinoma with true sarcomas (e.g., fibrosarcoma), nor with spindle cell melanoma or synovial sarcoma, all of which may appear morphologically similar. Accurate terminology is essential for treatment pathway accuracy.
Usage
Usage note: 'Carcinosarcoma' is considered outdated; flag for replacement. Confirm IHC data is cited when this diagnosis is reported.
In Context
- "Immunohistochemistry confirmed the spindle cell population was cytokeratin-positive, supporting a diagnosis of spindle cell carcinoma rather than fibrosarcoma." — Histopathology report
- "The submitted manuscript incorrectly used 'carcinosarcoma'; the editor flagged this as outdated and suggested 'spindle cell carcinoma' per current nomenclature." — Peer review note