Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 4, 2026

Efficient Isolation Protocol for B and T Lymphocytes from Human Palatine Tonsils
Published on: November 16, 2015
The rectal tonsil: a reactive lymphoid proliferation that may mimic lymphoma
Alton B Farris1, Gregory Y Lauwers, Judith A Ferry
1James Homer Wright Pathology Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA. afarris@partners.org
Rectal tonsil (RT) is a lymphoid tissue proliferation in the rectum that can mimic lymphoma. Recognizing RT's distinct features is crucial to prevent misdiagnosis and ensure appropriate patient management.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pathology
- Immunology
Background:
- Rectal tonsil (RT) is a lymphoid tissue proliferation in the rectum.
- RT can present diagnostic challenges and be misdiagnosed as lymphoma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To perform a clinicopathologic analysis of rectal tonsil (RT) cases.
- To identify features aiding in the recognition of RT and prevent lymphoma misdiagnosis.
Main Methods:
- Clinicopathologic analysis of 11 rectal tonsil (RT) cases.
- Review of endoscopic descriptions and histological findings.
- Immunohistochemical staining for follicular dendritic cells (where applicable).
Main Results:
- RT occurred in middle-aged adults and presented with rectal bleeding or abdominal pain.
- Endoscopically, RT appeared as polypoid lesions, nodules, or masses.
- Histologically, RT showed lymphoid proliferation with identifiable lymphoid follicles, cryptitis, and intraepithelial lymphocytes, but no crypt abscesses or obliteration.
Conclusions:
- Rectal tonsil (RT) is a distinct entity that requires careful recognition.
- Familiarity with the characteristic histological features of RT is essential to avoid misinterpretation as lymphoma.
- No recurrence or lymphoma development was observed during follow-up.
More Related Videos
07:38Isolation of Tonsillar Mononuclear Cells to Study Ex Vivo Innate Immune Responses in a Human Mucosal Lymphoid Tissue
Published on: June 14, 2020
10:49Automated Multiplex Immunofluorescence Panel for Immuno-oncology Studies on Formalin-fixed Carcinoma Tissue Specimens
Published on: January 21, 2019
Related Concept Videos
Tonsillitis I: Introduction
Etiology
Three primary contributing factors have been identified.
Lymphoid Cells and Tissues
Lymphoid cells consist of various types of immune system cells. These include B and T lymphocytes, which are responsible for producing antibodies and killing infected cells, respectively. Dendritic cells act as messengers between the innate and adaptive...
Secondary Lymphoid Organs
The spleen is a vital organ in the lymphatic system, nestled in the upper left side of the abdomen. It is composed of two primary regions: the red pulp and the white pulp, each having distinct functions. The red pulp performs a significant role in blood filtration. It efficiently purges the blood of old or damaged red blood cells and...
Chronic Pharyngitis
Etiology
It often arises from persistent viral or bacterial infections affecting sinuses and tonsils.
Additional contributing factors include inadequate dental hygiene, mouth breathing, recurring tonsillitis, allergic rhinitis, laryngopharyngeal reflux, and exposure to smoke, chemicals, and other environmental pollutants. Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and pet dander, chronic cough, excessive voice usage,...
Tonsillitis II: Management
Appendicitis