Signet ring cell carcinoma

In signet ring carcinomas are mucus -producing adenocarcinomas, that is to malignant tumors of glands. The tumor cells are characterized by the production and accumulation of large amounts of mucus, whereby the cell nuclei will be pressed against the edge. This get these cells, viewed under the microscope, resembles a signet ring. This particular morphology gave the signet ring carcinoma or signet ring cells their name. The cell content of the tumor cells can be stained deep red by the PAS staining.

Signet ring carcinomas can occur in all glands of the body, that is, in the lining of the digestive and respiratory tract and the female reproductive organs and in the glands of the liver, kidney, and other endo - and exocrine glands. Preference is given to signet ring carcinomas but above the stomach. Other mucus- producing adenocarcinomas are the so-called mucinous carcinomas.