Encountering xanthogranulomatous inflammation in a myriad of settings

ABSTRACT

Background: Xanthogranulomatous inflammation is a rare but well recognized variety of chronic inflammation seen in multiple sites. It may present as a mass lesion and mimic malignant tumors, in other cases it may be discovered as an incidental finding in tissues removed for different reasons. Xanthogranulomatous inflammation was encountered in five different cases which included two gall bladders, one kidney, one endoscopic biopsy from gastric mucosa and one collaural fistula. The demographic data as well as pathological findings are described. After although the exact etiopathogenesis of xanthogranulomatous inflammation is still debated, it is agreed that it has no pre-malignant potential. Therefore, resection is considered adequate therapy for effected patients. This makes it all the more important to recognize it in its various morphological forms, even in endoscopic biopsies, to avoid unnecessary extirpative procedures