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Flow-sorting and Exome Sequencing of the Reed-Sternberg Cells of Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma
Published on: June 10, 2017
Reed-Sternberg-Like Cells in Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas
Juan C Gomez-Gelvez1, Lauren B Smith
1From the Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor.
Insights
Pathologists must distinguish large atypical cells resembling Reed-Sternberg cells in lymph node biopsies. Recognizing these cells in reactive lymphadenopathies and lymphomas prevents diagnostic pitfalls.
Area of Science:
- Hematopathology
- Surgical Pathology
- Immunophenotyping
Background:
- Large atypical cells mimicking Reed-Sternberg cells occur in reactive lymphadenopathies and lymphomas.
- These cells present a significant diagnostic challenge for pathologists interpreting lymph node biopsies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review lymphomas presenting with Reed-Sternberg-like cells.
- To detail morphologic and immunophenotypic features of these cells.
- To provide strategies for differentiating them from classical Hodgkin lymphoma.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature and case examples.
- Morphologic analysis of atypical cells in lymph node biopsies.
- Immunophenotypic characterization of Reed-Sternberg-like cells.
Main Results:
- Reed-Sternberg-like cells are observed in various lymphomas and reactive conditions.
- Distinct morphologic and immunophenotypic profiles aid in differentiation.
- Contextual analysis of the cellular environment is critical.
Conclusions:
- Accurate identification of Reed-Sternberg-like cells is crucial for correct lymphoma diagnosis.
- Comprehensive evaluation of morphology, immunophenotype, and cellular milieu is essential.
- Distinguishing these cells from classical Hodgkin lymphoma requires careful pathological assessment.
Abstract:
Large atypical cells with morphologic and immunophenotypic features resembling Reed-Sternberg cells can be seen in the background of reactive lymphadenopathies as well as non-Hodgkin lymphomas. The presence of these cells is an important diagnostic pitfall that must be recognized by pathologists who regularly interpret lymph node biopsies. A thorough evaluation of the morphologic and immunophenotypic features of these cells and the cellular milieu is crucial in achieving the correct diagnosis. In this review, examples of lymphomas presenting with Reed-Sternberg-like cells will be provided. Additionally, a detailed description of the common morphologic and immunophenotypic features of these cells, as well as strategies that can be used to distinguish them from the Reed-Sternberg cells of classical Hodgkin lymphoma, will be emphasized.
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