Lymphoid aggregates in bone marrow: a diagnostic pitfall

Area of Science:

• Hematopathology
• Diagnostic Pathology

Background:

• Lymphoid aggregates in bone marrow are common but can be diagnostically challenging.
• Differentiating reactive from neoplastic aggregates is clinically significant.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide evidence-based criteria for distinguishing benign from malignant lymphoid aggregates.
• To discuss the utility and limitations of ancillary tests in bone marrow pathology.
• To review the etiologies and clinical associations of benign lymphoid aggregates.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on diagnostic criteria for lymphoid aggregates.
• Analysis of ancillary testing modalities (immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, molecular studies).
• Synthesis of information on causes and implications of benign lymphoid aggregates.

Main Results:

• Established criteria for differentiating reactive versus neoplastic lymphoid aggregates.
• Evaluated advantages, disadvantages, and pitfalls of various diagnostic tests.
• Summarized common causes of benign lymphoid aggregates, including infections and autoimmune disorders.

Conclusions:

• Accurate distinction between benign and malignant lymphoid aggregates is essential for patient management.
• Awareness of ancillary test limitations is critical for correct interpretation.
• Benign lymphoid aggregates have varied clinical significance and associations requiring careful evaluation.