Ångström-resolution fluorescence microscopy

Fluorescence microscopy, with its molecular specificity, is one of the major characterization methods used in the life sciences to understand complex biological systems. Super-resolution approaches1-6 can achieve resolution in cells in the range of 15 to 20 nm, but interactions between individual biomolecules occur at length scales below 10 nm and characterization of intramolecular structure requires Ångström resolution. State-of-the-art super-resolution implementations7-14 have demonstrated spatial resolutions down to 5 nm and localization precisions of 1 nm under certain in vitro conditions. However, such resolutions do not directly translate to experiments in cells, and Ångström resolution has not been demonstrated to date. Here we introdue a DNA-barcoding method, resolution enhancement by sequential imaging (RESI), that improves the resolution of fluorescence microscopy down to the Ångström scale using off-the-shelf fluorescence microscopy hardware and reagents. By sequentially imaging sparse target subsets at moderate spatial resolutions of >15 nm, we demonstrate that single-protein resolution can be achieved for biomolecules in whole intact cells. Furthermore, we experimentally resolve the DNA backbone distance of single bases in DNA origami with Ångström resolution. We use our method in a proof-of-principle demonstration to map the molecular arrangement of the immunotherapy target CD20 in situ in untreated and drug-treated cells, which opens possibilities for assessing the molecular mechanisms of targeted immunotherapy. These observations demonstrate that, by enabling intramolecular imaging under ambient conditions in whole intact cells, RESI closes the gap between super-resolution microscopy and structural biology studies and thus delivers information key to understanding complex biological systems.

Efficacy of the Antigenicity-Retaining Ability of Fixative Solutions for Liquid-Based Cytology: Immunocytochemistry of Long-Term Storage

INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVE

Liquid-based cytology (LBC) is advantageous as multiple stained specimens can be prepared and used for additional assays such as immunocytochemical and molecular-pathological investigations. Two types of preservative-fixative solutions (fixatives) are used for nongynecologic specimens used in the BD SurePath-LBC (SP-LBC) method, and their components vary. However, few studies have evaluated the differences in antigen-retaining ability between these fixatives. Therefore, we investigated and compared the antigen-retaining ability of the fixatives in immunocytochemical staining (ICC) under long-term storage conditions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sediments of cultured RAJI cells (derived from Burkitt's lymphoma) were added to each fixative (red and blue) and stored at room temperature for a specified period (1 h; 1 week; and 1, 3, and 6 months). The specimens were then prepared using the SP-LBC method and subjected to ICC. Positivity rate was calculated using the specimens fixed at room temperature for 1 h as a control. Antibodies against Ki67 expressed in the nucleus and against CD20 and leukocyte common antigen (LCA) expressed on the cell membrane were used.

RESULTS

For CD20 and LCA, the positivity rate increased with time in the red fixative compared with that in the control. In the blue fixative, the positivity rate was highest at 1 h and was maintained at a high level throughout the storage period. In contrast, the Ki67 positivity rate was highest at 1 h in both red and blue fixatives and markedly decreased with time. Therefore, although refrigerated (8°C) storage was used, no improvement was noted.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term storage is possible for cell membrane antigens at room temperature; however, it is unsuitable for intranuclear antigens. Therefore, we conclude that suitable fixative type and storage temperature differ based on antigen location. Further investigation is warranted.

Biomarkers for Risk Stratification in Patients With Previously Untreated Follicular Lymphoma Receiving Anti-CD20-based Biological Therapy

Follicular lymphoma (FL) is an indolent B-cell neoplasm of germinal center origin. Standard treatment regimens consist of anti-CD20 therapy with or without chemotherapy. While high response rates to initial therapy are common, patients ultimately relapse or have progressive disease. Clinical risk factors such as the Follicular Lymphoma International Prognostic Index (FLIPI) have been identified, but there is a need for prognostic and predictive biomarkers. We studied markers of lymphoma cells and tumor microenvironment by immunohistochemistry in tissue samples from patients enrolled in 1 of 4 phase 2 trials of anti-CD20-based biological therapy for previously untreated grades 1 to 2 or 3A FL. Results were correlated with progression-free survival (PFS) and PFS status at 24 months. The 4 trials included 238 patients (51.1% male, median age: 55 y) with stage III, IV, or bulky stage II disease. By FLIPI, 24.6% had low-risk, 56.8% had intermediate-risk, and 18.6% had high-risk disease. The outcome differed significantly for patients treated with lenalidomide and rituximab (CALGB 50803) compared with the other 3 trials (median: PFS not reached vs. 3.0 y, hazard ratio=3.47, 95% confidence interval: 2.11-5.72); therefore, data were stratified by clinical trial (CALGB 50803 vs. all others) and adjusted for FLIPI risk group. Among 154 patients with available tissue, interfollicular BCL6 positivity, interfollicular CD10 positivity, and elevated Ki67 proliferation index ≥30% within neoplastic follicles were each associated with inferior PFS and a high risk of the early event by PFS status at 24 months. We identify promising biomarkers for FL risk stratification that warrant further validation in phase 3 trials.

Cutaneous B-Cell Lymphoblastic Lymphoma

B-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma (B-LBL) is a malignant neoplasm of immature B cells that accounts for only 10% of all cases of lymphoblastic lymphoma. Most commonly, B-LBL presents as bony lesions, but in rare cases, the disease manifests cutaneously. We present a case of simultaneous cutaneous and systemic presentation of B-LBL in an otherwise healthy 28-year-old man in which the lymphoblastic infiltrate stained positive for CD79a, Tdt, CD10, and CD20. A diagnosis of cutaneous B-LBL was made, and systemic work-up revealed widespread involvement of the skin, bone, and lymph nodes. Review of all currently described cases of cutaneous B-LBL with or without systemic involvement revealed that the most frequently positive tumor markers were CD79a (92.3%), Tdt (90.6%), and CD10 (83.3%). Systemic involvement of B-LBL was found in nearly half of all cases with cutaneous presentation.

CD20-negative primary middle ear diffuse large B-cell lymphoma coexpressing MYC and BCL-2 secondary to acute lymphoblastic leukemia: A case report

RATIONALE

Second diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) after treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is uncommon. To our knowledge, primary middle ear DLBCL which presents CD20-negative and coexpression of MYC and BCL-2 has not been reported yet.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 20-year-old Chinese man complained fever and weakness for 2 months. Subsequently bone marrow morphology and flow cytometry immunophenotype suggested ALL. Administrated with 9 cycles of multiagent combined chemotherapy, he felt right ear progressive hearing loss, otalgia, aural fullness. Otoendoscopic examination revealed a pitchy mass obstructing the right external auditory canal. Then the mass resection was performed for biopsy and immunohistochemistry examination.

DIAGNOSIS

The mass was diagnosed as DLBCL which was negative for CD20 and double expression of MYC and BCL-2.

INTERVENTIONS

Chemotherapy.

OUTCOMES

The patient eventually gave up and died of severe infection.

LESSONS

Although intensive chemotherapy has markedly improved the survival of ALL, more and more secondary cancers have been reported. In addition, primary middle ear lymphoma is much rare; hence, it is easy to be misdiagnosed. Furthermore, DLBCL with negative CD20 and double expression of MYC and BCL-2 is aggressive, which is characterized by chemotherapy resistance and inferior survival rates. We discuss this case aiming at raising awareness of tumors secondary to ALL and exploring the appropriate treatment options for the rare DLBCL.

The Number of Natural Killer Cells in the Largest Diameter Lymph Nodes Is Associated with the Number of Retrieved Lymph Nodes and Lymph Node Size, and Is an Independent Prognostic Factor in Patients with Stage II Colon Cancer

OBJECTIVE

We previously reported that the largest diameter of retrieved lymph nodes (LNs) correlates with the number of LNs and is a prognostic factor in stage II colon cancer. We examine whether T, B, and natural killer (NK) cells in LNs are related to the number of LNs and survival.

METHODS

The subjects comprised 320 patients with stage II colon cancer. An LN with the largest diameter was selected in each patient. The positive area ratios of cells that stained for CD3 and CD20, and the numbers of CD56-positive cells were measured.

RESULTS

The CD3-positive area ratio was 0.39 ± 0.08 and CD20-positive area ratio was 0.42 ± 0.10. The mean number of CD56-positive cells was 19.3 ± 22.7. The area ratios of B cells and T cells and the number of NK cells were significantly related to the sizes of the largest diameter LNs. The number of NK cells significantly correlated with the number of LNs and was an independent prognostic factor. On multivariate analysis, pathological T stage (T4 or T3; HR 4.71; p < 0.001) and the number of CD56-positive cells (high or low; HR 0.22; p < 0.001) were found to be independent prognostic factors.

CONCLUSIONS

The number of NK cells in the largest diameter LNs can most likely be used as a predictor of recurrence.

Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma Coexistent with Follicular Cell Lymphoma

BACKGROUND

Diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and follicular cell lymphoma (FL) synchronously occurring in the same individual is unusual. The authors describe a rare case of DLBCL coexisting with FL at diagnosis in a male patient, with intestinal and lymph node involvement.

METHODS

Hematologic investigation, intestinal tumor biopsy, bone marrow examination, cytogenetic analysis, and PCR were performed.

RESULTS

The patient received three courses of R-CHOP regimen chemotherapy, the mesentery lymph nodes were reduced to 2.7 x 1.4 cm compared to 5.4 x 5.0 cm at diagnosis. However, the mesentery lymph nodes were increased to 4.7 x 3.5 cm after four additional courses R-CHOP treatment. Unfortunately, the patient refused chemotherapy treatment or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and was lost to follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of DLBCL coexisting with FL at diagnosis is rare and has generally been the subject of isolated case reports. Further studies are required to better understand the biological insights of the disease and to propose an optimal management strategy for this type of lymphoma.

A clinical and histopathological analysis of the anti-centromere antibody positive subset of primary Sjögren's syndrome

OBJECTIVES

ACA-positive/primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) represents a distinct overlapping entity with intermediate features in between limited systemic sclerosis (lSSc) and pSS. Few data are available on their general risk for lymphoproliferative complications, specifically regarding adverse predictors at the level of minor salivary gland (MSG) histology. The objectives of this work are: a) to characterise, through a detailed immunohistochemistry study, the organisation of the lymphomonocitic infiltrates in ACA-positive/pSS patient vs. ACA-negative/pSS patients focusing on the presence of GC-like structures in minor salivary gland biopsies; b) to compare the frequency of traditional clinical and serological risk factors for lymphoma between the two subgroups.

METHODS

We analysed 28 MSG samples from ACA-positive/pSS patients and 43 consecutive MSGs from ACA-negative/pSS, using sequential IHC staining for CD3, CD20 and CD21 in order to define the T/B cell segregation within the periductal infiltrates and presence of ectopic GC-like on the detection of GC-like structures. Clinical and serological data of all the patients were retrieved and analysed.

RESULTS

Ectopic lymphoid structures (ELS) with GC-like structures were observed in 7 out of 28 ACA-positive/pSS patients (25%) and in 13 out of 43 ACA-negative/pSS patients (30.2%). Similarly, no statistical significant difference was found between the two groups as far as the classical pSS risk factors for lymphoproliferative complications was concerned (i.e. salivary gland enlargement, purpura, low C4, leukocytopenia, clonal gammopathy). Finally, the 3 cases of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma observed were equally distributed between the two subsets.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, this study indicates that ACA-positive/and ACA-negative pSS patients apparently present a similar risk for lymphoproliferative complications as suggested indirectly by the analogies between the two groups observed at the histopathology level.

Nephrotic Syndrome and Angiotropic Lymphoma Report of a Case

A case of angiotropic lymphoma involving renal glomeruli and interstitial vessels associated with nephrotic syndrome and with minor lesions in the glomerular basal membrane is reported. A 56-year-old woman had fever, weakness and clinical findings of a nephrotic syndrome with normal renal function. Renal biopsy revealed that the glomeruli were infiltrated by neoplastic lymphoid cells positive for CD20 and CD45; the glomerular basement membranes showed a pattern of minimal change disease. This case and our review of the literature suggest that the rare association of intravascular lymphoma and glomerular disease is more than coincidental.

Composite lymphoma of follicular B-cell and peripheral T-cell types with distinct zone distribution in a 75-year-old male patient: a case study

Composite lymphoma of T-/B-cell type is rare, and follicular lymphoma composite with peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL) has not previously been reported. We report such a case with both neoplastic components displaying a unique zone of distribution. A 75-year-old male patient presented with generalized lymphadenopathy. Sections of axillary lymph node demonstrated potentially 2 clonal processes, PTCL with aberrant CD20 expression and follicular lymphoma. Interestingly, the 2 neoplastic components were confined to their respective classic distribution zones, with PTCL occupying the interfollicular areas and follicular lymphoma residing in follicles. Both populations were detected by flow cytometry, but their immunophenotypes were insufficient to define clonality. Nonetheless, biclonality was demonstrated by lymphoid receptor gene rearrangement analyses. Molecular cytogenetics showed IGH/BCL2 fusion in the follicular lymphoma and amplification of IGH gene or trisomy/tetrasomy 14 in the PTCL. The current case underscores the complexity of composite lymphoma and advocates a multimodal approach to establishing the diagnosis.

Interstitial Immunostaining and Renal Outcomes in Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody-Associated Glomerulonephritis

BACKGROUND

Immunopathologic features predict renal function at baseline and follow-up in antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated glomerulonephritis (GN). The interstitial infiltrate consists predominantly of T lymphocytes, but their pathophysiologic significance is unclear, especially in light of the success of B-cell-directed therapy.

METHODS

Renal biopsies from 33 patients treated with cyclophosphamide (CYC; n = 17) or rituximab (RTX; n = 16) in the RTX in ANCA-associated vasculitis (RAVE) trial were classified according to the new ANCA GN classification. T- and B-cell infiltration in the interstitium was assessed by immunostaining for CD3 and CD20. Correlations of clinical and histologic parameters with renal function at set time points were examined.

RESULTS

The mean (SD) baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate was 36 (20) mL/min/1.73 m2. ANCA GN class distribution was 46% focal, 33% mixed, 12% sclerotic and 9% crescentic. The interstitial infiltrate consisted of >50% CD3 positive cells in 69% of biopsies, but >50% CD20 positive cells only in 8% of biopsies. In a multiple linear regression model, only baseline glomerular filtration rate (GFR) correlated with GFR at 6, 12, and 18 months. Interstitial B- and T-cell infiltrates had no significant impact on long-term prognosis, independent of the treatment limb. A differential effect was noted only at 6 months, where a dense CD3 positive infiltrate predicted lower GFR in the RTX group and a CD20 positive infiltrate predicted higher GFR in the CYC group.

CONCLUSIONS

In ANCA-associated GN, the interstitial infiltrate contains mainly T lymphocytes. However, it is neither reflecting baseline renal function nor predictive of response to treatment, regardless of the immunosuppression regimen employed.

Phase II Study of Yttrium-90 Ibritumomab Tiuxetan Plus High-Dose BCNU, Etoposide, Cytarabine, and Melphalan for Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: The Role of Histology

Standard-dose 90yttrium-ibritumomab tiuxetan (.4 mci/kg) together with high-dose BEAM (BCNU, etoposide, cytarabine, and melphalan) (Z-BEAM) has been shown to be a well-tolerated autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation preparative regimen for non-Hodgkin lymphoma. We report the outcomes of a single-center, single-arm phase II trial of Z-BEAM conditioning in high-risk CD20+ non-Hodgkin lymphoma histologic strata: diffuse large B cell (DLBCL), mantle cell, follicular, and transformed. Robust overall survival and notably low nonrelapse mortality rates (.9% at day +100 for the entire cohort), with few short- and long-term toxicities, confirm the safety and tolerability of the regimen. In addition, despite a high proportion of induction failure patients (46%), the promising response and progression-free survival (PFS) rates seen in DLBCL (3-year PFS: 71%; 95% confidence interval, 55 to 82%), support the premise that the Z-BEAM regimen is particularly effective in this histologic subtype. The role of Z-BEAM in other strata is less clear in the context of the emergence of novel agents.

Percutaneous liver biopsy: retrospective study of primary and secondary hepatic lymphoma in twenty-one patients

BACKGROUND

Hepatic lymphoma (HL) is categorized as primary and secondary hepatic lymphoma (PHL and SHL). This disorder can present as hepatic mass or mass-like lesion. Chemotherapy often is the first line treatment for patients with HL. Thus, an accurate pre-management histological diagnosis is essential to potentially improve clinical outcomes. The present study was to explore the prevalence of HL in ultrasound guided liver biopsies for hepatic mass or mass-like lesions, to investigate HL associated clinicopathological features, to raise the awareness of early recognition and proper diagnosis of this entity, and to assess specimen adequacy in needle core biopsy.

METHODS

Twenty-one cases of HL were enrolled. Clinical and pathological characteristics were evaluated, quality of biopsies was assessed and pertinent literature was reviewed.

RESULTS

HL was diagnosed in 0.94% of 2242 liver biopsy cases with ambiguous clinical presentation, laboratory tests and image studies. There were two cases of PHL (0.09%), and nineteen cases of SHL (0.85%). Histopathologically, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma was the most common type, followed by B-cell lymphoma not otherwise specified, T-cell lymphoma, Hodgkin's lymphoma, and B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma. Additionally, three lymphocytic infiltration patterns were documented microscopically. The nodular infiltration was the most common type.

CONCLUSIONS

HL is a rare entity and histopathology along with ancillary tests remains the only way to make the diagnosis. Clinicians' awareness of this entity and early liver biopsy are essential in patient management.

Rituximab in B-Lineage Adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

BACKGROUND

Treatment with rituximab has improved the outcome for patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Patients with B-lineage acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) may also have the CD20 antigen, which is targeted by rituximab. Although single-group studies suggest that adding rituximab to chemotherapy could improve the outcome in such patients, this hypothesis has not been tested in a randomized trial.

METHODS

We randomly assigned adults (18 to 59 years of age) with CD20-positive, Philadelphia chromosome (Ph)-negative ALL to receive chemotherapy with or without rituximab, with event-free survival as the primary end point. Rituximab was given during all treatment phases, for a total of 16 to 18 infusions.

RESULTS

From May 2006 through April 2014, a total of 209 patients were enrolled: 105 in the rituximab group and 104 in the control group. After a median follow-up of 30 months, event-free survival was longer in the rituximab group than in the control group (hazard ratio, 0.66; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.45 to 0.98; P=0.04); the estimated 2-year event-free survival rates were 65% (95% CI, 56 to 75) and 52% (95% CI, 43 to 63), respectively. Treatment with rituximab remained associated with longer event-free survival in a multivariate analysis. The overall incidence rate of severe adverse events did not differ significantly between the two groups, but fewer allergic reactions to asparaginase were observed in the rituximab group.

CONCLUSIONS

Adding rituximab to the ALL chemotherapy protocol improved the outcome for younger adults with CD20-positive, Ph-negative ALL. (Funded by the Regional Clinical Research Office, Paris, and others; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00327678 .).

Development-associated immunophenotypes reveal the heterogeneous and individualized early responses of adult B-acute lymphoblastic leukemia

B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) exhibits phenotypes reminiscent of normal stages of B-cell development. As demonstrated by flow cytometry, the immunophenotypes are able to determine the stages of B cell development. Multicolor flow cytometry (MFC) is more accurate at identifying cell populations. In this study, 9-color panels, including CD10, CD19, CD20, CD22, CD34, CD79a, CD179a, and IgM, which are sequentially expressed during B cell development, were designed to detect the leukemia cell subpopulations in adult B-ALL patients. In 23 patients at diagnosis, 192 heterogeneous subpopulations of leukemia cells were detected. Compared with their counterparts at diagnosis and after the 1st course of induction therapy, the responses of the subpopulations were also heterogeneous. In the CD10 population, the residual B cell subpopulations in the BCR/ABL patients were obviously reduced compared to those in the BCR/ABL patients. New subpopulations were detected in 22 of 23 patients and were primarily located in the CD34CD10 populations. Subpopulations of clonal evolution were heterogeneous after induction therapy. Our results suggest that the subpopulations in B-ALL patients should be dynamically monitored by development-associated immunophenotyping before, during, and after induction therapy and to predict the prognosis of the disease.

Malignant Lymphoma in Patients with Systemic Rheumatic Disease (Rheumatoid Arthritis, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic Sclerosis, and Dermatomyositis): A Clinicopathologic Study of 24 Japanese Cases

We conducted clinicopathologic and immunohistochemical analyses of the prevalence of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) among 24 patients with malignant lymphoma complicating systemic rheumatic diseases. (SRD) These 24 patients included 17 with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), 3 with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), 2 with systemic sclerosis (SS), and 2 with dermatomyositis (DM). There were 2 men and 22 women ranging in age from 30 to 86 years (mean: 64 years). The interval between the onset of rheumatic disease and that of malignant lymphomas ranged from 3 months to 35 years (mean: 142 months). The use of immunosuppressive drugs before the onset of malignant lymphoma was recorded in 15 patients. Among them, 5 patients received methotrexate (MTX) therapy. Malignant lymphomas were found at extranodal sites in 9 patients, and the disease was in the advanced stage in 17 patients. Histologic and immunohistochemical studies demonstrated that 18 cases (75%) were B-cell lymphoma (RA=12, SLE=2, SS=2, DM=2), 3 (12.5%) were peripheral T-cell lymphoma (RA=3), and 3 (12.5%) were classical Hodgkin lymphoma (RA=2, SLE=1). As in previous reports, there was an increased frequency of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (50%) in the present series. Moreover, a majority of the diffuse large B-cell lymphomas exhibited activated B-cell phenotype. EBV-encoded small RNAs (Epstein-Barr early region [EBER]-) and/or LMP-1+tumor cells were identified in only 3 cases of classical Hodgkin lymphomas. Our findings suggested EBV-associated lymphoma comprised only a small fraction of all non-Hodgkin's lymphomas in the general SRD patient population.

Type 2 diabetic patient with a foot ulcer as initial manifestation of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: A case report

Diabetic foot ulcerations (DFU) represent a major cause of hospitalization and amputation. In people with diabetes it's not uncommon to find chronic wounds due to pathogenic mechanisms different from diabetes. Here we report the case of a foot lesion misdiagnosed as DFU but actually caused by diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.

Cellular Profile and Expression of Immunologic Markers in Chronic Apical Periodontitis from HIV-infected Patients Undergoing Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy

INTRODUCTION

This study tested the hypothesis that the inflammatory cell profile (CD3-, CD4-, CD8-, CD20-, and CD68-positive cells) and the expression of immunologic markers (tumor necrosis factor α, interferon-γ, interleukin-6, and interleukin-18) in chronic apical periodontitis are the same between non-HIV-infected patients and HIV-infected patients undergoing highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART).

METHODS

Thirty-four surgically excised chronic apical periodontitis lesions were sampled from 34 patients (17 HIV-infected and 17 non-HIV-infected). The lesions were extracted from teeth with no previous endodontic treatment. All HIV-infected patients were undergoing HAART. The specimens were submitted to histopathologic and immunohistochemical analyses by using an optical microscope. Immunoexpression was graded into 2 levels, focal to weak and moderate to strong. The χ(2), Fisher exact, and Mann-Whitney tests were used to analyze all significant differences between groups.

RESULTS

Periapical cysts represented 70.6% and 52.9% of the lesions in the HIV-infected and non-HIV-infected groups, respectively; however, no statistically significant difference was observed (P = .481). There were no statistically significant differences between groups for the inflammatory cell profile and for any of the immunologic markers (P > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

There are no statistically significant differences of the cellular profile and expression of immunologic markers in chronic apical periodontitis between non-HIV-infected patients and HIV-infected patients undergoing HAART.

Rapid immunocytochemistry based on alternating current electric field using squash smear preparation of central nervous system tumors

The role of intraoperative pathological diagnosis for central nervous system (CNS) tumors is crucial for neurosurgery when determining the surgical procedure. Especially, treatment of carmustine (BCNU) wafers requires a conclusive diagnosis of high-grade glioma proven by intraoperative diagnosis. Recently, we demonstrated the usefulness of rapid immunohistochemistry (R-IHC) that facilitates antigen-antibody reaction under alternative current (AC) electric field in the intraoperative diagnosis of CNS tumors; however, a higher proportion of water and lipid in the brain parenchyma sometimes leads to freezing artifacts, resulting in poor quality of frozen sections. On the other hand, squash smear preparation of CNS tumors for cytology does not affect the frozen artifacts, and the importance of smear preparation is now being re-recognized as being better than that of the tissue sections. In this study, we established the rapid immunocytochemistry (R-ICC) protocol for squash smears of CNS tumors using AC electric field that takes only 22 min, and demonstrated its usefulness for semi-quantitative Ki-67/MIB-1 labeling index and CD 20 by R-ICC for intraoperative diagnosis. R-ICC by AC electric field may become a substantial tool for compensating R-IHC and will be applied for broad antibodies in the future.

Involvement of bone marrow in lymphoma: pathological investigation in a single-center from northern China

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate key features of bone marrow trephine biopsy (BMT) involvement of lymphoma in Northern China.

METHODS

950 cases were assessed for the occurrence of bone marrow involvement and architectural features including volume percentage, involvement pattern (diffuse, nodular, focal, para trabecular, or interstitial), and presence/absence of background changes (granuloma, stromal fibrosis or necrosis). Correlations with bone marrow aspirate (BMA) and flow cytometry (FCM) findings were made in a subset of paired cases (359 BMA and 364 FCM).

RESULTS

153 (16.1%) cases involved BMT. The most frequent type was mantle cell lymphoma (28/153, 18.3%). Architectural features were similar to previous studies except that diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) preferred focal pattern (16/22 cases, 72.7%) most of all. BMA and BMT agreed in 84.1% of cases (302 of 359: 277 both negative, 25 both positive), while FCM and BMT agreed in 80.8% of cases (294 of 364: 242 both negative, 52 both positive). Both varied widely among different subgroups.

CONCLUSIONS

Occurrence of BMT involvement by lymphoma in Northern China is relatively low. The volume percentage, distribution patterns and background changes may be useful pointers towards a particular lymphoma type in Chinese. FCM is more sensitive and reliable than BMA in China.

Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma secondary to lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma: a case report and review of literature with clonality analysis

Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) can be a fatal malignancy mainly because of difficulty in early detection. Due to the lack of specific clinical manifestations, early detection of IVLBCL remains a challenge, especially in the presence of comorbidities. Lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma (LPL) is an indolent B-cell lymphoma accompanied by monoclonal immunoglobulin M protein in most patients, and known to be associated with high risk of secondary hematological malignancies. Here, we report a patient who developed IVLBCL during treatment for LPL that presented a diagnostic challenge. Rearrangement analysis of the immunoglobulin heavy chain revealed the different clonal origins of two lymphomas, implying a predisposition of LPL to develop unrelated secondary lymphoma. Secondary lymphoma including IVLBCL during the treatment for LPL deserves consideration in order to facilitate early diagnosis and intervention.

Impact of chorioamnionitis on the development of human fetal lung: an immunohistochemical study

PURPOSE

Current studies suggest that changes of chorioamnionitis are associated with the appearance of bronchial-associated lymphoid tissue (BALT), during fetal development. The aim of this study was to examine and analyse apart from the appearance of BALT, the expression of structural proteins in the lung parenchyma during gestation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A series of 149 paraffin-embedded human fetal lung specimens at the second trimester of development were examined by immuunohistochemistry using the monoclonal antibodies CD20, CD3, Tenascin-C, Vimentin, and Fibronectin.

RESULTS

The results of this study showed that (1) BALT does not develop in fetal period and (2) BALT which develops during fetal period is probably in response to antigenic stimulation where in the present cases occurs to be changes of chorioamnionitis which decreased the expression of filaments proteins in the intermediate cells of lung parenchyma in comparison with the normal ones.

CONCLUSION

The expressions' pattern of intermediate filaments proteins in the lung parenchyma can be modified by the presence of chorioamnionitis in the fetal membranes.

Benefits and limitations of multimodality imaging in the diagnosis of a primary cardiac lymphoma

Primary cardiac tumors are far rarer than tumors metastatic to the heart. Angiosarcoma is the primary cardiac neoplasm most frequently detected; lymphomas constitute only 1% of primary cardiac tumors. We present the case of a 55-year-old woman with a recently diagnosed intracardiac mass who was referred to our institution for consideration of urgent orthotopic heart transplantation. Initial images suggested an angiosarcoma; however, a biopsy specimen of the mass was diagnostic for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. The patient underwent chemotherapy rather than surgery, and she was asymptomatic 34 months later. We use our patient's case to discuss the benefits and limitations of multiple imaging methods in the evaluation of cardiac masses. Certain features revealed by computed tomography, cardiac magnetic resonance, and positron emission tomography can suggest a diagnosis of angiosarcoma rather than lymphoma. Cardiac magnetic resonance and positron emission tomography enable reliable distinction between benign and malignant tumors; however, the characteristics of different malignant tumors can overlap. Despite the great usefulness of multiple imaging methods for timely diagnosis, defining the extent of spread and the hemodynamic impact, and monitoring responses to treatment, we think that biopsy analysis is still warranted in order to obtain a correct histologic diagnosis in cases of suspected malignant cardiac tumors.

Expression patterns of B cells in acute kidney transplant rejection

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate B-cell expression patterns and association with function and survival in dysfunctional kidney allografts.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

There were 110 kidney transplant recipients included who had for-cause biopsies. Demographic and transplant data were collected. Immunostaining for B cells, plasma cells, and C4d was performed by the immunoperoxidase technique in paraffin-embedded samples. Circulating antihuman leukocyte antigen donor-specific antibodies were detected in a single-antigen assay at biopsy. The main outcomes were kidney graft survival and function. The patients were evaluated in 3 groups according to the Banff classification: no rejection (40 patients), T-cell-mediated rejection (50 patients), and antibody-mediated rejection (20 patients).

RESULTS

The CD138-positive plasma cell-rich infiltrates predominated in antibody-mediated rejection and were associated with stronger reactivity against panel antibodies (r = 0.41; P ≤ .001) and positive donor-specific antibodies (r = 0.32; P ≤ .006). The CD20-positive lymphocytes were associated with T-cell-mediated rejection, increased human leukocyte antigen mismatch, and frequency of retransplant. The CD138-positive cell infiltrates also were significantly greater in patients who had late than early rejection. There was no correlation between cellular CD20 and CD138 expression, and neither CD20 nor CD138 predicted worse graft function or survival. Other markers of antibody-mediated rejection such as C4d and donor-specific antibodies were associated with worse graft function and survival at 4 years after transplant. In multivariate analysis, C4d was the only risk factor associated with graft loss.

CONCLUSIONS

After kidney transplant, CD20-positive B-cell infiltrates were associated with T-cell-mediated rejection, and CD138-positive plasma cells were associated with antibody-mediated rejection. Graft loss was associated with the presence of C4d.

Relationships between tumor microenvironment and clinicopathological parameters in meningioma

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the relationship between the subtype of cells/cellular constituents (the density of T lymphocyte subsets, B lymphocyte, macrophages, and FOXP3 positive cells in 93 patients with meningioma, WHO grades I and II) in the tumor microenvironment and clinicopathological parameters (gender, age, tumor location, size, recurrence and pathological type) of meningioma.

METHODS

Immunohistochemical demonstrations of CD20 and CD4 lymphocytes, CD68, and FOXP3 expression were performed. In order to assess the densities of CD4, CD20, CD68 and FOXP3 positive cells in 93 meningioma patients, the results were derived from independent reviews by two pathologists. Chi-square test was used for independent samples.

RESULTS

There were no relationships between the CD4(+), CD68(+) cell subsets and patients' age, sex, tumor size, grade and the recurrence of tumor. However, patients with recurrence had a significantly higher density of CD20(+) B cells compared to patients with no recurrence (P = 0.003). For the Foxp3(+) cell subset, results showed us that more female patients had high density of Foxp3(+) cells compared with male patients, while the opposite results were observed in the low density group (P = 0.009). Furthermore, the density of Foxp3(+) cells was significantly correlated with the tumor size (P = 0.004) and the pathological types (P = 0.004).

CONCLUSION

Results in this study demonstrate that higher CD20(+) B cell density in the tumor is associated with lower tumor recurrence and the density of Foxp3(+) cells is significantly correlated with the patients' sex, tumor size and the pathological types. The results also suggest that understanding of the cellular constituents of tumors and the tumor microenvironment may help investigate the tumor pathogenesis and immunotherapies in meningioma.

Mantle cell lymphoma in a lacrimal gland in a female and a review of the literature

PURPOSE

To report a rare case of Mantle cell lymphoma in lacrimal gland and review of the literature

CASE REPORT

We report a case of a 59-year-old female who presented with an upper eyelid mass in the right eye for 3 months, without pain and irrigation. A computerized tomography (CT) scan showed a mass in the bilateral lacrimal gland region, more significant in right eye. The patient underwent a lacrimal gland mass excision surgery and diagnosis of mantle cell lymphoma by histopathology. Immunochemistry for CD20, CD79a, CD5, and CyclinD1 was positive. She was recommended to the Shantou cancer hospital for chemotherapy.

CONCLUSION

Mantle cell lymphoma is a rare type of malignant lymphoma, over expressing CD5 and cyclin D1 antigens, which distinguishes it from other B cell lymphomas.

[Intrathoracic-mediastinal myofibroblastic tumor. Report and experience of one case]

BACKGROUND

Inflammatory pseudotumor is a little known and uncommon condition. The debate continues whether it represents an inflammatory lesion or is a true neoplasm. It is considered a reactive process usually characterized by irregular growth of inflammatory cells. It has been described at various sites, the most common being the lung. The aim of this report is to emphasize the difficulty in the initial diagnosis.

CLINICAL CASE

We present the case of a 56-year-old male who reports an 8-month history of dry cough, dyspnea, fatigue, weakness and weight loss of 20 kg. We performed two biopsies, one positive for malignancy without response to medical treatment and the second reporting chronic granulomatous inflammation. The patient underwent sternotomy, revealing a tumor of 20 × 17 × 10 cm, weighing approximately 2 kg. The tumor was dependent on the anterior mediastinum surrounding large vessels, and venous brachiocephalic, pericardium and both pleuras with firm adhesions to the right lung. Pathological report was as follows: inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor with positive immunohistochemistry for CD20 and CD3. Postoperative course was satisfactory and 1 year after surgery there was no evidence of recurrence.

CONCLUSION

Inflammatory pseudotumor is a benign neoplasm of unknown origin with a chronic course. It can simulate a malignant tumor, causing constitutional manifestations, airway obstruction, cardiac alterations or other symptoms according to their location. Diagnosis is based on radiological features and direct biopsy. Treatment of choice is complete resection of the tumor with a favorable long-term outcome.

ASSOCIATION OF TEMPORAL LOBE INFLAMMATORY LEUKOENCEPHALOPATHY WITH TWO B CELL MALIGNANCIES

Identification of etiological connections among virtually distinct diseases in a patient may be sometimes challenging. We report a unique case with two B cell malignancies and an inflammatory leukoencephalopathy. Three days prior to admission, the elderly male patient developed fatigue, headaches, recurrent vomiting, memory disturbances, depression and somnolence. Clinical, laboratory and imaging evaluations as well as post mortem histological studies were performed. Simultaneous presence of primary central nervous system B cell lymphoma, temporal lobe inflammatory leukoencephalopathy and multiple (smoldering) myeloma, was revealed by the detailed work up in the treatment-naïve patient. Based on recent data from genomic studies, we propose that a sequential evolution of molecular pathology lead to the co-occurrence of multiple myeloma and primary central nervous system B cell lymphoma in this patient, and interpret the development of the temporal lobe leukoencephalopathy as a likely paraneoplastic complication of smoldering myeloma.

[Use of anti-B-cell therapy in case of antisynthetase syndrome as the severest subtype of polymyositis/dermatomyositis]

Antisynthetase syndrome encompassing a symptom complex with severe interstitial lung disease is the severest subtype of polymyositis and dermatomyositis. The characteristic feature of antisynthetase syndrome is the insufficient efficiency of traditional therapy with glucocorticosteroids and cytostatics, which determines the prognosis of the disease and the need for new therapeutic approaches to treating these patients.

CD56 positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: a case report and literature review

CD56 positive B-cell lymphoma is very rare. We experienced a case of CD56 positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, occurred in a young child. A 5-year-old girl complained with snoring and open mouth breathing. No any abnormality in laboratory or physical examination was present, except enlarged both tonsils. Bilateral tonsillectomy was performed. Cut sections of right tonsil showed a 2 cm size, solid mass. On microscopically, large monomorphic lymphoid cells were diffusely proliferated and showed positivity for CD20 and CD56 and negative for Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Monoclonality was observed on immunoglobulin heavy chain gene rearrangement. This is a unique case with incidentally found and occurred in a young child.

The relative composition of the inflammatory infiltrate as an additional tool for synovial tissue classification

OBJECTIVES

Traditionally, differences in absolute numbers of cells expressing a certain marker (e.g., positive staining cells per mm²) have been used in immunohistological synovial tissue classification. We have begun to evaluate the relative composition of the inflammatory infiltrates, i.e. percentages of inflammatory cell types in inflammatory infiltrates, as an alternate classification tool that may potentially improve tissue diagnostics, subgrouping in clinical trials, and understanding of pathogenesis of inflammatory and noninflammatory arthropathies.

METHODS

Synovial tissue specimens (normal synovium, n=15; orthopedic arthropathies, n=6; osteoarthritis, n=26; early undifferentiated arthritis, n=10; rheumatoid arthritis, n=26; chronic septic arthritis, n=11) were stained for CD15, CD68, CD3, CD20, and CD38. Densities of cells expressing a given marker were determined in the superficial subintima. Binary and multicategory receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis and naïve Bayes classifier were used to compare the abilities of (1) the absolute densities of cells expressing a given marker (absolute method) with (2) the percentages of these cells in the inflammatory cell population (relative method) to differentiate among the six tissue classes.

RESULTS

The inflammatory infiltrates in normal synovium and the orthopedic arthropathies consisted almost exclusively of CD68+ and CD3+ cells. Notable fractions of CD20+ and CD38+ cells appeared in a subset of osteoarthritis samples, and increased further in early, rheumatoid and chronic septic arthritis. ROC analyses and naïve Bayes classifier ranked the absolute method above the relative method in terms of overall discriminatory ability. The relative method became slightly superior when the samples were also stratified according to the total number of inflammatory cells/mm².

CONCLUSIONS

This exploratory investigation featuring a variety of joint disorders revealed that measuring the relative proportions of inflammatory cell types may aid in synovial tissue classification if the samples are also stratified according to the intensity of inflammation.

Tumor-infiltrating B cells come into vogue

Lymphocyte infiltration into solid tumors has been recognized as a main determinator of positive prognosis. For the most part this is attributed to cytotoxic T cells capable of directly destroying malignant cells. However, when considering the complex composition of the human immune system, recent findings of Nielsen et al on a potentially central role of tumor-infiltrating B cells is not really surprising. In this commentary article, I want to highlight the enormous potential impact of this observation for basic and translational research, prognostic procedures and ultimately for the development of future therapeutic concepts.

P-glycoprotein-1 functional activity in CD5+CD7+ and CD20+ lymphocytes in systemic lupus erythematosus children: relation to disease activity, complications and steroid response

The multi-drug resistance protein -1 or P-glycoprotein-1 ( P-gp1) functions as Energy-dependent efflux pump responsible for decreased drug accumulation in multidrug-resistant cells. Increased P-gp1 expression in lymphocytes of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) may influence steroid requirements for disease control. This study evaluates P-gp1 functional activity in CD5+, CD7+ and CD20+ lymphocytes in SLE children and its impact on clinical outcome. 44 SLE children and 50 healthy controls were studied. Estimation of P-gp1 function was based on the efflux of Rhodamine-123 using flow cytometry. Results were expressed as percentage of lymphocytes with high P-gp1 activity. The P-gp1 function in CD5+, CD7+ and CD20+ lymphocytes was significantly higher in patients compared to controls (with P value < 0.05 for each lymphocyte population). The expression of active P-gp1 in CD5+ and CD7+ lymphocytes correlated positively with disease activity as estimated by SLEDAI and ESR. P-gp1 expression in SLE lymphocytes was also found to correlate significantly with some disease manifestations specially lupus nephritis, thrombocytopenia and ANA positivity. Steroids low responders whose SLEDAI were > or = 11 while receiving 1 mg/Kg/day of prednisolone demonstrated higher P-gp1 functions in CD 5+ and CD 7+ lymphocytes compared to high responders whose SLEDAI were < 11 while receiving < 1 mg/Kg/day of prednisolone. CD5+ lymphocyte's P-gp1 function was found to be lower in the patients receiving cyclophosphamide in addition to steroids compared to those on steroids only. It is concluded that measuring P-gp1 function in CD5+ and CD7+ lymphocytes could be one of the prognostic and therapeutic indices in SLE.

CD20+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes have an atypical CD27- memory phenotype and together with CD8+ T cells promote favorable prognosis in ovarian cancer

PURPOSE

Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL), in particular CD8(+) T cells and CD20(+) B cells, are strongly associated with survival in ovarian cancer and other carcinomas. Although CD8(+) TIL can mediate direct cytolytic activity against tumors, the role of CD20(+) TIL is poorly understood. Here, we investigate the possible contributions of CD20(+) TIL to humoral and cellular tumor immunity.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

Tumor and serum specimens were obtained from patients with high-grade serous ovarian cancer. CD8(+) and CD20(+) TIL were analyzed by immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry. Immunoglobulin molecules were evaluated by DNA sequencing. Serum autoantibody responses to the tumor antigens p53 and NY-ESO-1 were measured by ELISA.

RESULTS

The vast majority of CD20(+) TIL were antigen experienced, as evidenced by class-switching, somatic hypermutation, and oligoclonality, yet they failed to express the canonical memory marker CD27. CD20(+) TIL showed no correlation with serum autoantibodies to p53 or NY-ESO-1. Instead, they colocalized with activated CD8(+) TIL and expressed markers of antigen presentation, including MHC class I, MHC class II, CD40, CD80, and CD86. The presence of both CD20(+) and CD8(+) TIL correlated with increased patient survival compared with CD8(+) TIL alone.

CONCLUSIONS

In high-grade serous ovarian tumors, CD20(+) TIL have an antigen-experienced but atypical CD27(-) memory B-cell phenotype. They are uncoupled from serum autoantibodies, express markers of antigen-presenting cells, and colocalize with CD8(+) T cells. We propose that the association between CD20(+) TIL and patient survival may reflect a supportive role in cytolytic immune responses.

Letter: Primary cutaneous marginal zone B cell lymphoma of the face: a challenging diagnosis

The primary cutaneous marginal zone B cell lymphoma is a small B cell lymphoma, including cells of the marginal zone, lymphoplasmacytic cells, and plasma cells. Clinically it manifests as erythematous or erythematous-violaceous papules, plaques, or nodules, single or multiple, most often located to the extremities. Its course is usually indolent, with a survival at 5 years of approximately 97 percent. The tumor exhibits a tendency towards local recurrence, but spread to locations outside the skin is extremely rare. We present a case report of a man, 80 years of age, with a primary cutaneous marginal B cell lymphoma of the chin, an atypical location.

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma arising primarily at the stoma after bladder reconstruction using ileal conduit

A 76-year-old man suffered from swelling stoma for several weeks. A biopsy sample revealed the diffuse infiltration of large lymphoid cells which were positive for CD20, bcl-6, and MUM1. The patient was diagnosed with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, with a non-germinal center B-cell pattern. A whole-body PET-CT scan revealed that the lymphoma was restricted to the stomal site. Bladder reconstruction was undertaken using the ileal conduit: this is the first reported case of lymphoma that developed primarily at the stoma. During the long-term maintenance after bladder reconstruction, clinicians should consider the possibility of lymphoma at the stomal site.

Development and characterization of monoclonal antibodies against human CD20 in Balb/c mice

BACKGROUND

Targeting CD20 antigen on B-lymphocytes provides good opportunity for management of the target cells in patients with B-cell malignancies. By the advent of hybridoma technology, monoclonal antibodies applications exert extensive changes in medical fields such as diagnosis, treatment and purification.

OBJECTIVE

The prim aim of this study was to produce monoclonal antibody against CD20 for exploitation in diagnosis.

METHODS

In this study, Balb/c mice were immunized with two peptides from extracellular domain of CD20. Poly Ethylene Glycol (PEG) fused spleen cells of the most immune mouse with SP2/0 (myeloma cells). Supernatant of hybridoma cells were screened for detection of antibody by ELISA. The desired clones were selected for limiting dilution (L.D). Afterward, specificity and cross reactivity of these antibodies were determined by immunological assay such as ELISA and western blot analysis (WB) and Immunofluorescence. Large scale of monoclonal antibodies was produced by ascetic fluid method. Monoclonal antibody was purified by chromatography then confirmed by SDS-PAGE.

RESULTS

In this study, between five positive clone wells, 3 clones were chosen for limiting dilution. Limiting dilution product was one monoclone with absorbance about 2.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that such monoclonal antibodies against CD20 can be used in diagnosis of CD20 in the cells surface.

Recurrent localized primary cutaneous marginal-zone B cell lymphoma

A 36-year-old man with a prior diagnosis of primary cutaneous marginal-zone B cell lymphoma presented with newly-developed, small, erythematous papules and nodules on his upper left arm and pink-to-skin-colored, clustered papules on his left forearm. A biopsy specimen and immunohistochemical analysis of the left arm lesions showed a lymphocytic infiltrate which stained positively for CD20 and Bcl-2 and negatively for CD10. A PET-CT scan was negative for any extra-cutaneous manifestations of disease. These clinicopathologic findings are indicative of recurrent localized primary cutaneous marginal-zone B cell lymphoma.

Malignant lymphoma of the kidney mimicking rapid progressive glomerulonephritis

Primary renal lymphoma (PRL) is rare and often presents as rapidly progressive renal failure. Most cases of PRL are large-cell lymphomas of B-cell lineage. Herein, we report a 75-year-old female patient with infiltrative CD20 (+) B-cell lymphoma who underwent 4 consecutive courses of chemotherapy with R-CVP (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and prednisone) and after 12 sessions became free from hemodialysis in good general condition. Her serum creatinine level gradually decreased to 4.1 mg/dl with adequate urine output. Unfortunately, a relapse of CD20 (-) lymphoma developed rapidly involving other organs. She died with severe hospital-acquired pneumonia and febrile neutropenia after the last chemotherapy with R-MINE almost 1 year after onset of symptoms. We conclude that renal biopsy enables prompt diagnosis in rapidly progressive renal failure and immunophenotyping and also staging workup of the lymphoma in case of positive biopsy. Though rituximab improved response rate of PRL, it reduced expression of CD20. This may relate to frequent relapse/resistance after rituximab therapy and poor long-term patient survival.

A rare case of chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma presenting in the thyroid gland

BACKGROUND

Lymphoma involving the thyroid gland is rare. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma are the two most common histologic subtypes of primary thyroid lymphoma. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (CLL/SLL) presenting initially as a thyroid abnormality is extremely rare, with very few reported cases in the literature.

SUMMARY

We report a case of a patient with a long history of Hashimoto's thyroiditis and goiter who presented with a recent enlargement of her thyroid gland. The sonographic finding of a distinct thyroid nodule in the heterogeneous background of chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis led to the performance of a fine-needle aspiration biopsy and flow cytometry, with a high index of suspicion for thyroid lymphoma. Subsequent surgical removal of the thyroid gland, prompted by the patient's history of head and neck radiation, confirmed the diagnosis of CLL/SLL. The patient's systemic illness was recognized only after the management of her thyroid disease. Although thyroiditis has long been associated with lymphoma arising in the thyroid gland, CLL/SLL involving the thyroid has not been linked to chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis. Therefore, the patient also had coexisting thyroiditis.

CONCLUSIONS

Due to the rarity of thyroid lymphomas, our experience in the detection and management of this disease is limited. Primary thyroid lymphoma should be suspected in a patient with a history of chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis presenting with a rapidly enlarging neck mass. The initial diagnostic method for thyroid lymphoma should consist of a fine-needle aspiration biopsy with the use of ancillary techniques such as flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry for improved diagnostic accuracy. Although controversial, the treatment of thyroid lymphoma is typically guided by the histologic subtype and extent of disease. CLL/SLL is one of the rarest subtypes of lymphoma that can involve the thyroid gland. Diagnosis of this entity is difficult, particularly before the recognition of systemic involvement, requiring the expertise of a multidisciplinary team for early detection and optimal management.

Cutaneous angiogenesis in patient with intravascular lymphoma (IVL): A case report

We present a case of widespread cutaneous telangiectasias in a patient with a B-cell intravascular lymphoma most likely representing tumor-induced angiogenesis. The patient presented with a rapid onset of large cutaneous telangiectasias and skin edema, followed by the development of multiorgan failure. We describe difficulties with the ante-mortem diagnosis in the patient with predominant, clinically observed, skin lesions. The patient had disseminated disease involving many organs with a rapidly fatal outcome. The final diagnosis of intravascular malignant lymphoma (IVL) was established post-mortem after morphological and immunohistochemical studies of the autopsy material.

A principal case of multiple lymphoid collision tumors involving both B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia and metastatic malignant melanoma

B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic B-cell lymphoma (CLL/B-SLL) is a neoplasm of B-cell lymphocytes that occurs frequently in the older population as an asymptomatic elevation of the white blood cell count (WBC) and has a good overall prognosis. Malignant melanoma of the skin is a neoplasm derived from cutaneous melanocytes that frequently arises among the elderly and, depending on certain histopathologic features, may metastasize loco-regionally or distally. However, only one report describes synchronous presentation of these two malignancies within the same lymph node. In this report, we present the unique case of an 87-year-old male with a presumed history of indolent CLL/B-SLL, in which metastatic malignant melanoma and CLL/B-SLL both involved 112 of 145 dissected regional lymph nodes. Possible explanations regarding the mechanisms that can lead to this rare presentation of both CLL/B-SLL and melanoma in the same lymph nodes are discussed.