Diagnostic Workup of Small B Cell Lymphomas: A Laboratory Perspective

Abstract

Small B cell lymphoma is a morphological designation to a group of B cell lymphomas which are composed of a clonal population of small lymphoid cells. The subtypes of this category have diagnostically distinct characteristics and different clinical behaviors and treatment. Correct diagnosis and classification of these subsets depend on the integration of morphologic, immunophenotypic, and molecular genetic features. In this paper, differential diagnosis of this category of tumors and a practical approach based on biomarker evaluation are discussed.

Indolent T‐cell‐rich small B‐cell hepatic lymphoma in a Golden Retriever

“…Bone marrow was not available for histological examination in this case, but lymphocytes were within normal limits in the bone marrow cytologically. The histological features and clinical features described in lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma and mantle cell lymphoma were inconsistent with this case …”

Small round tumour cells (CD38, CD 79a positive) in the adrenal gland

“…Few patients may present with symptoms of adrenal insufficiency. Hepatosplenomegaly, lymphadenopathy, concurrent or prior immune dysregulation, and bone marrow involvement are uncommon 7 . Histologically, most of the tumors (70–90%) of primary adrenal lymphomas are of diffuse large B-cell type.…”

CD5 positive follicular lymphomas: A diagnostic dilemma in a resource restricted laboratory setting

“…CD23 immunostaining which highlights the follicular dendritic cells aids in assessing the extent of follicular component. [13,14] The varied architectural patterns and variants lead to confusion with other small B cell lymphomas which include small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) and marginal based on the morphological and immunohistochemical study. Histology was evaluated in formalin-fixed, paraffinembedded (FFPE) and H&E-stained sections.…”