[Two cases of IBL-like T-cell lymphoma showing helper/inducer characteristics]

Two cases of an IBL-like T-cell lymphoma are reported, in one case of which the histological changes could be observed throughout its course. Although both cases were difficult to differentiate from true IBL in their early stage, focal proliferation of pale cells appeared in their first specimens and gradually, the characteristics of lymphoma grew manifest. Immunohistochemical studies of both cases revealed lymphoma cells having the characteristics of helper/inducer T lymphocytes. Electron-Microscopic examination showed no particular differences in the morphology of the tumor cells between our case and the case previously reported as being an IBL-like T-cell lymphoma of a suppressor/cytotoxic character.