solidmulticystic

Solidmulticystic is a descriptive term used in pathology and radiology to characterize a lesion that contains both solid tissue and multiple cystic spaces. It is not a diagnosis in itself but indicates a heterogeneous, multi-component mass.

Usage and scope: The descriptor is applied to lesions in various organ systems, including the breast, ovaries, kidneys, liver, and pancreas, where tumors or inflammatory processes exhibit a combination of solid nodules and cysts.

Imaging features: On ultrasound, a solidmulticystic lesion typically shows mixed echogenicity with solid components alongside cystic areas, often with internal septations. Cross-sectional imaging (CT or MRI) may reveal a mass with enhancing solid parts and non-enhancing or enhancing cystic regions, with septations or mural nodules and sometimes calcifications.

Histology: When examined under the microscope, solid areas show cellular tissue while cystic components consist of cavities lined by epithelium. The textures and epithelial type vary by organ; the surrounding stroma can be fibrous, myxoid, or inflammatory.

Clinical significance: The finding signals heterogeneity that may require further diagnostic work-up to determine the underlying cause and appropriate management. Outcomes depend on the specific pathology behind the solid and cystic components, ranging from benign lesions to malignant neoplasms.

See also: complex cyst, multicystic lesion, cystadenoma, cystadenocarcinoma, and differential diagnoses of cystic tumors.