Diagnostic Images: Schaumann Bodies

Femela. M

Consultant Pathologist, Kauvery Hospital, Radial Road, Chennai

(A)

(B)

Fig (A), (B): Schaumann Bodies

Definition

Schaumann bodies are laminated, calcified structures found within multinucleated giant cells, typically Langhans-type or foreign-body giant cells, in granulomatous diseases. They are composed of calcium and protein and sometimes contain iron or oxalate.

Histological Features

Microscopic appearance:

Round or oval
Concentric, lamellated (onion-skin) calcific structures
Eosinophilic on H&E staining
Typically located in the cytoplasm of multinucleated giant cells.

Associated Diseases

Most commonly associated with sarcoidosis, but may also be seen in:

Berylliosis
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis
Tuberculosis (rarely)
Fungal infections with granulomatous response
Granulomatous foreign body reactions

Pathogenesis

Believed to form from mineral deposition (mainly calcium and iron) around an organic nidus within giant cells.
Their presence is associated with chronic inflammation and persistent antigenic stimulation.

Diagnostic Importance

Not pathognomonic for sarcoidosis, but supportive of a granulomatous etiology when found with non-caseating granulomas.
Often seen alongside asteroid bodies, another cytoplasmic inclusion in giant cells.

Staining Characteristics

H&E: Pink, eosinophilic concentric bodies
Von Kossa stain: Can be used to confirm presence of calcium
Prussian blue: May highlight iron content if present

Clinical Relevance

Helpful in differentiating sarcoidosis from other granulomatous conditions, particularly when found in non-caseating granulomas. Not diagnostic on their own but contribute to the overall histopathologic picture.

References

Kumar, V., Abbas, A. K., & Aster, J. C. (2020). Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease (10th ed.). Elsevier.
Rosai, J. (2011). Rosai and Ackerman’s Surgical Pathology (10th ed.). Elsevier.
Katzenstein, A. L. A., & Askin, F. B. (2010). Katzenstein and Askin’s Surgical Pathology of Non-Neoplastic Lung Disease (4th ed.). Elsevier.
Iannuzzi, M. C., Rybicki, B. A., & Teirstein, A. S. (2007). Sarcoidosis. New England Journal of Medicine, 357(21), 2153–2165. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMra071714
Schaumann, J. (1917). Studies on sarcoidosis (Besnier-Boeck disease). Brill Med Journal.

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Diagnostic Images: Schaumann Bodies