title: Loose cell clusters with vascular coats: Zellballen pattern of paraganglioma on cytology.
abstract: Paragangliomas are uncommon tumors arising in paraganglion tissue, which is well represented in the head and neck. A correct pre-operative cytological diagnosis helps in planning early and optimal surgery. Cytologic features in carotid body tumor and extra adrenal paragangliomas have been well described and documented. In addition to the acinar and discrete arrangement of cells, smears also showed a few large loose clusters of cells enveloped by thin vascular channels-the so-called zellballen pattern, a diagnostic feature on histopathology. Zellballen pattern of paraganglioma on cytology is not a common finding and hence is being reported.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pathology, BYL Nair Ch. Hospital & T N Medical College, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
authors.forename: Kusum D
authors.initials: KD
authors.lastname: Jashnani
authors.affiliation: Department of Pathology, BYL Nair Ch. Hospital & T N Medical College, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
authors.forename: Roshni D
authors.initials: RD
authors.lastname: Patil
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, BYL Nair Ch. Hospital & T N Medical College, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
authors.forename: Dharmesh J
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: Balsarkar
keywords: Carotid body tumor; cell clusters enveloped by vessels; cytological features; paraganglioma; vascular coat; zellballen pattern