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Case Series: Malignant Flower Cells in Peripheral Blood
Ursula Matos1, Wan Ying Tan2, Kapil Meleveedu2
1Department of Internal Medicine, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, FARMINGTON, USA.
Flower cells in peripheral blood are typically linked to Adult T-cell Leukemia/Lymphoma (ATLL). This study reveals these unique cells can appear in various hematologic neoplasms, broadening the diagnostic scope beyond ATLL.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Cytopathology
- Oncology
Background:
- Flower cells, characterized by flower-like nuclei, are an uncommon peripheral blood finding.
- This morphology is classically associated with Human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) infection and Adult T-cell Leukemia/Lymphoma (ATLL).
Purpose of the Study:
- To document hematologic neoplasms presenting with flower cells in peripheral blood.
- To expand the diagnostic considerations for this cytologic feature beyond ATLL.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of peripheral blood smear findings.
- Correlation of cytologic morphology with final hematologic diagnoses.
Main Results:
- Identified cases of diverse hematologic malignancies exhibiting flower cells.
- Demonstrated that flower-like nuclear morphology is not exclusive to ATLL.
Conclusions:
- Flower cells in peripheral blood can be indicative of a broader spectrum of hematologic neoplasms.
- Recognizing this expanded differential is crucial for accurate diagnosis and patient management.
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