[Histochemistry as a diagnostic technic in the classification of hematopoietic-system tumors]

106 tumours involving the haematopoietic system were examined using a wider range of histochemical methods, particularly enzymatic ones. The results were compared with other diagnostic techniques. A critical analysis of the results showed that as regards the purely diagnostic aspect the significance of histochemistry was severely limited to practically no more than tumours of the granulocytic series (myeloperoxidase and chloracetylesterase activities). Proof of alpha--mannosidase activity appeared to be greatly promising in the group of histiocytosis X. In the rest of the series, particularly in the lymphatic and thrombocytic series, the diagnostic significance of histochemistry proved to be either limited or non-existent. Considering the present state of methods used, the main advantage of histochemistry is in that it helps add details to the metabolic profile of the tumour under study. Some of the problems of the conception of the so called markers are discussed.