Neuroblastic nodules and giant epithelial cells in suprarenal gland in fetuses of different gestational age groups

Introduction: Microscopic neuroblastic nodules are found in the suprarenal gland of newborns and young infants. The purpose of this study was to determine the morphology and derivation of neuroblastic nodules and giant epithelial cells of human fetal suprarenal gland. Materials and methods: The study consisted of 30 spontaneously aborted human fetal specimens from 11th weeks to 28th weeks of gestational ages. The suprarenal glands were taken from fetal specimens for histological study. The staining was done by hematoxylin and eosin. The following points about the neuroblastic nodule and giant epithelial cells were noted: number, location, size, any specific change like cystic degeneration with increasing age in the cells, distribution pattern of neuroblasts and giant epithelial cells, and their relation to the capsule, cortex, and central vein. Results: The neuroblastic nodules and giant epithelial cells increased in number as the gestation advanced but after 20 weeks of gestation, their number started decreasing. At the gestational age 25-28 weeks, both the giant epithelial cells and neuroblastic cells were absent. Conclusion: Both giant epithelial cells and neuroblastic cells are an integral part of the normal development of the suprarenal gland and they disappear with the advancement of the gestational age. These cells are important because some authors consider them to be the precursor of malignancy in later life.