Plasmacytoid T-cell clusters in non-specific lymphadenitis

Virchows Arch B Cell Pathol Incl Mol Pathol. 1983;44(1):1-14. doi: 10.1007/BF02890155.

Abstract

The occurrence and morphology of Lymphoblastennester (clusters of lymphoblasts) were analyzed in 500 unselected cases of nonspecific lymphadenitis. Sixty-eight cases showed such clusters, which consist of uniform-looking medium-sized cells. Based on the results of recent immunologic investigations, these cells may be interpreted as T-cells with plasmacytoid features ("plasmacytoid T-cells', PTC). PTC were usually located near venules in the pulp, but not in the generally hyperplastic T-nodules. There was usually no relation to hyperplasia of B-regions (follicles). Although occasional mitotic figures and basophilic blast cells were found at the edges of PTC clusters, it is possible that PTC develop through transformation of T-lymphocytes. PTC often showed pyknotic nuclei and a tendency to perish, suggesting that they are end cells. Necrotic cells were phagocytosed by macrophages, which occasionally caused a starry sky pattern like that seen in germinal centers. Sometimes there were also a few interdigitating reticulum cells in the clusters. The function of PTC is still obscure; they might secrete lymphokines.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Cell Nucleus
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hyperplasia
  • Infant
  • Lymph Nodes / pathology
  • Lymphadenitis / pathology*
  • Macrophages
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Mononuclear Phagocyte System / pathology
  • Phagocytosis
  • Staining and Labeling
  • T-Lymphocytes / pathology*