Immunophenotypic alteration of the stromal component in minimal deviation adenocarcinoma (‘adenoma malignum’) and endocervical glandular hyperplasia: a study using oestrogen receptor and α‐smooth muscle actin double immunostaining

Abstract

Both MDA and WDA can be distinguished from LEGH and NEGH by identifying surrounding alpha-SMA+ stromal cells and the absence or decreased number of ER+ cells, possibly as a result of the desmoplastic reaction with myofibroblasts replacing pre-existing ER+ stromal cells. In particular, the periglandular distribution of these alpha-SMA+ stromal cells can be a clue suggesting destructive stromal invasion in cases of MDA, although occasional glands may lack these cells.