Tumours of the mononuclear phagocyte system: a review of clinical and pathological features

Cells of the mononuclear-phagocyte system (MPS) may give rise to a wide variety of tumours of diverse morphology ranging from acute leukemia to small benign tumours of the skin. This review of tumours of the MPS was prompted by recent advances in understanding of tumour morphology and immunologic features. It is now possible to differentiate tumours of the MPS mor precisely from tumours of lymphoid origin with which they have often been confused; however, controversy still exists as to the origin of the malignant cell of Hodgkin disease. Current evidence is reviewed which favours the view tht the malignant cell of Hodgkin disease is of monocyte origin. A classification of MPS tumours based on organ system of origin and disease extent is presented.