Fine-needle aspiration biopsy of chondromyxoid fibroma: an investigation of four cases

We describe the cytologic features of chondromyxoid fibroma in fine-needle aspiration biopsy specimens in 4 patients. We analyzed rapid Romanowsky- and Papanicolaou-stained slides with a respect to overall cellularity, the presence of hypercellular chondromyxoid fragments (HCFs), nuclear atypia, cytoplasmic features, and the presence of giant cells. The most consistent and diagnostically useful feature was the presence of HCFs, which were present in all 4 cases. Mild to moderate nuclear atypia was additionally present in all 4 cases. Most cases were hypocellular (3/4). Giant cells were present in 2 cases, with 1 case exhibiting a hypercellular smear with numerous giant cells. All 4 cases were confirmed in subsequent histologic biopsy material. Strict attention to clinical, radiographic, and cytologic features, especially the presence of HCFs, can aid in the specific diagnosis of chondromyxoid fibroma on FNAB.