Related Experiment Videos
Mononuclear phagocytic and dendritic cell systems
1Lahey Clinic Medical Center, Department of Allergy, Burlington, MA 01805.
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
|June 1, 1990
Summary
This review proposes a new classification for mononuclear phagocyte and dendritic cell disorders, moving beyond outdated cytomorphology. Advanced techniques identify distinct cell types, aiding in understanding both benign and malignant histiocytic diseases.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Immunology
- Dermatopathology
Background:
- Traditional classifications of histiocytic disorders based on cytomorphology are obsolete.
- Advances in microscopy and immunocytochemistry reveal histiocytes comprise multiple cell types.
- Two main groups, monocyte-macrophages and dendritic cells, are now recognized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel classification scheme for disorders of the mononuclear phagocyte and dendritic cell systems.
- To integrate new findings from advanced cellular analysis into disease classification.
- To address uncertainties in classifying certain histiocytic disorders.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature and classification systems.
- Integration of data from electron microscopy, enzyme histochemistry, and immunocytochemistry.
- Analysis of cellular characteristics in various histiocytic disorders.
Main Results:
- Histiocytes are classified into monocyte-macrophage and dendritic cell groups.
- Dendritic cells include Langerhans cells, indeterminate cells, interdigitating cells, and dermal dendrocytes.
- Specific cell types identified in some benign and malignant histiocytic disorders.
Conclusions:
- A revised classification is needed due to the heterogeneity of histiocytic cells.
- Accurate classification aids in understanding disease behavior (benign vs. malignant).
- Further research is required to fully classify all histiocytic disorders, especially benign forms.