The presence of neuroendocrine cells is putative in thyroid hyalinizing trabecular tumor (HTT), although this entity requires a differential diagnosis from paraganglioma or medullary carcinoma of the thyroid, due to similarity of the growth pattern of the cells. Here, we present a case of HTT with a mixture of endocrine cells stained positive for somatostatin, chromogranin A and Grimelius' silver impregnation. The histology and results of other immunostainings were consistent with the features typical for HTT. In the world literature to date, only two cases of HTT with endocrine cells, including the current case, have been reported. Nevertheless, the cases may indicate the diversified differentiation of cells in HTT and may, in part, account for the resemblance of HTT to paraganglioma and medullary carcinoma.

Most vertebral haemangiomas are asymptomatic. A case of spinal reconstruction for symptomatic extraosseous thoracic haemangioma using a titanium cage is reported. Radiographs of the T11 vertebra demonstrated characteristic vertical striations. Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography showed spinal cord compression by extraosseous tumour extension. Several tumour feeding vessels were shown by angiography. Through a transpedicular biopsy, a histological diagnosis of cavernous haemangioma was made. Embolisation of feeding vessels was performed using coils before surgery. Laminectomy and subtotal vertebrectomy were performed by a single posterior approach. Rigid stabilisation of the spine was achieved with pedicle screw systems and a cage filled with an autogenous bone graft. Five months postoperatively, stabilisation of the spine was established without loosening of the cage or pedicle screws. Clinical symptoms were improved.

F i g. 1 C l a s s i f i c a t i o n o f t h e 9 1 p a t i e n t s i n a c u t e a b d o me n F i g. 2 Di a g n o s i s a n d t h e r a p y f o r t h e p a t i e n t s wi t h o u t e me r g e n c y C T

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