The use of monoclonal antibodies in the diagnosis of peripheral T-cell lymphomas

Sixteen cases of peripheral T-cell lymphomas are described which are characterized immunologically by various methods including the use of monoclonal antibodies (Ab) to a variety of lymphocyte antigens. Seven cases were classified as helper/inducer and two as suppressor/cytotoxic phenotype. Four were considered T-cell, not otherwise specified, owing to lack of expression of subset phenotypic markers. Three cases were diagnosed prior to the advent of monoclonal Ab methods and were classified as being of T-cell origin by the E-rosette technique. In none of the cases was monotypic surface immunoglobulin or B-cell antigens expressed. The freeze-dried technique to prepare tissues for immunoperoxidase studies was found to be advantageous. The benefits and limitations of monoclonal Ab in the diagnosis of T-cell lymphomas are discussed.