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Published on: March 30, 2018
Cytologic features of NK/T-cell lymphoma
Amy Bik-Wan Chan1, Wing-Yee Chan, John Hei-Sing Chow
1Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, S.A.R., People's Republic of China. amychan@cuhk.edu.hk
Objective:
To describe the diagnostic cytologic features of NK/T-cell lymphoma.
Study Design:
The cytologic features of 3 cases of natural killer cell (NK)/T-cell lymphoma were studied and correlated with histology. Immunohistochemistry for CD56, T-cell intracellular antigen (TIA-1) and EBV-encoded small nuclear RNAs (EBER) in situ hybridization was reviewed.
Results:
The lymphomas have mixed-sized cells with eccentric, round to ovoid nuclei; 1 or 2 prominent nucleoli; and abundant, clear to pale, eosinophilic cytoplasm. Mitotic figures, necrotic debris and tingible body macrophages are common accompaniments. In fluid, the lymphoma cells appear more shrunken. A clot section of 1 case was positive for CD56, TIA-1 and EBER.
Conclusion:
Helpful cytologic features for the diagnosis of NK/T-cell lymphoma are described. Immunohistochemistry for CD56, TIA-1 and EBER in situ hybridization are very helpful adjuncts for the diagnosis.
