High molecular weight caldesmon positive stromal cells in the capsule of hepatocellular carcinomas.

AIMS To investigate the smooth muscle nature of the stromal cells in the capsule of hepatocellular carcinomas. METHODS Immunohistochemical analysis using monoclonal antibody to high molecular weight caldesmon (HCD), a highly specific marker for smooth muscle cells, was performed in 33 encapsulated hepatocellular carcinomas and adjacent hepatic tissues. RESULTS HCD positive stromal cells were detected in the capsule of 21 of the 33 hepatocellular carcinomas examined. CONCLUSIONS The capsule of hepatocellular carcinomas contains smooth muscle cells.