Existence of junction-like structures in large B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphomas. An ultrastructural study

Pathol Res Pract. 1999;195(2):81-7. doi: 10.1016/S0344-0338(99)80075-2.

Abstract

The purpose of this work is to study the presence of cell junction-like structures in large B-cell lymphomas. The ultrastructural study, based on 20 cases of this entity proved by immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry, demonstrated four types of junction-like devices easily found between tumor cells. Several explanations are offered about the possible nature of such structures, including the possibility of them being the result of adhesion phenomena. It should also be emphasized that they can potentially complicate the differential diagnosis of those neoplasms. We should, therefore, be careful in rejecting an ultrastructural diagnosis of large B-cell lymphoma based only on the presence of junction-like structures.

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers, Tumor / analysis
  • Flow Cytometry
  • Gap Junctions / ultrastructure*
  • Humans
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Lymphoma, B-Cell / chemistry
  • Lymphoma, B-Cell / ultrastructure*
  • Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse / chemistry
  • Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse / ultrastructure*
  • Microscopy, Electron

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor