Lymphoproliferative disorders of the head and neck

Lymphoproliferative disorders are the frequent cause of indeterminate processes in the head and neck region for which otolaryngologists are often consulted by colleagues seeking a diagnosis. Because a wide spectrum of diseases may be represented, tissue diagnosis is often required. Recent advances in tissue immunotyping and DNA probes permit more precise identification and classification of these disorders. Lymphoproliferative disorders may be subdivided into five categories: Hodgkin's disease, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, histiocytosis X, benign reactive lymphoproliferative disorders, and plasma cell neoplasms. Representative cases are presented, along with a brief discussion of each category.