Splenic involvement by peripheral T-cell and NK-cell neoplasms

Area of Science:

• Hematopathology
• Oncology
• Immunology

Background:

• Literature on splenic pathology in peripheral T-cell and NK-cell lymphomas is limited compared to B-cell lymphomas.
• Splenic involvement is a common feature in various lymphoid neoplasms, influencing clinical presentation and prognosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe and categorize the distinct patterns of splenic involvement in peripheral T-cell and NK-cell lymphomas.
• To differentiate splenic pathology between various subtypes of T-cell and NK-cell lymphomas.

Main Methods:

• Review of histopathological findings in spleens from patients diagnosed with peripheral T-cell and NK-cell lymphomas.
• Analysis of characteristic splenic infiltration patterns, including nodular, diffuse, and vascular involvement.

Main Results:

• Observed patterns include fleshy nodules, diffuse red pulp involvement (most common), periarteriolar sheath colonization, and patchy involvement.
• Miliary small nodules, typical of low-grade B-cell lymphomas, are rarely seen.
• Hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma and T-cell large granular lymphocyte leukemia show stereotyped diffuse red pulp infiltration without nodules.
• Peripheral T-cell lymphoma unspecified exhibits variable patterns with potential hemophagocytosis or granulomas.
• Aggressive NK cell leukemia and extranodal NK/T cell lymphoma predominantly involve the red pulp, often with vascular infiltration and necrosis.

Conclusions:

• Splenic involvement patterns in T-cell and NK-cell lymphomas are diverse and distinct from B-cell lymphomas.
• Specific patterns are associated with particular subtypes, aiding in differential diagnosis.
• Further research into splenic pathology can improve understanding and management of these lymphomas.