Reed-Sternberg–Like Cells in Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas

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.

Peripheral T-cell lymphoma mimicking classic Hodgkin’s lymphoma in a patient presenting with fevers of unknown origin

“…They noted that Reed-Sternberg-like cells were positive for CD30 and CD15 and also showed expression of CD3 and CD4, but negative for B cell markers (CD20, PAX-5, CD10 and BCL-6) 8. This was consistent with the excisional lymph node biopsy in our case report as well as in liver and skin biopsies (figures 3, 4 and 5).…”

A composite lymphoma combining a Hodgkin lymphoma and a marginal zone lymphoma transformed into a diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma

“…This technique is known to be less sensible than the bone marrow biopsy to detect these types of cells . Moreover, when a DLBCL is suspected, it has already been described that Sternberg‐like cells may be observed on the bone marrow smear . Secondly, it is important to do repeated tests in various sites in order to increase the sensitivity.…”

“…Cytological analysis revealed also the presence of large atypical cells with intense basophilic cytoplasm containing vacuoles, with irregular nuclei, and some binucleated cells with decondensed chromatin and multiple nucleoli (Figure B). These cells were thought to be Reed‐Sternberg‐like cells which may be observed in patients with DLBCL . Immunophenotypic analysis performed on the bone marrow aspirate demonstrated the presence of a heterogeneous B population monotypic kappa (Figure A,B), with a strong expression of CD20 and expression CD10, and negative for CD5 and CD38 expression (Figure C,D).…”

Spontaneous Regression of Hodgkin Lymphoma: Case Report and Review of the Literature

“…Reed-Sternberg-like cells have been described in several other malignant and nonmalignant conditions [11]. Such “Hodgkin-like cells” have been described in non-HL [12]. In order to reduce the possibility of mistaken diagnosis, pathological material was sent for revision, which confirmed the diagnosis of HL.…”