Aberrant expression of multiple T antigens: CD4, CD5, and CD8 on diffuse large B-cell lymphoma

Appl Immunohistochem Mol Morphol. 2014 Nov-Dec;22(10):e45-8. doi: 10.1097/PAI.0b013e31829cc54c.

Abstract

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Aberrant expression of T antigens (exclusive of CD5) in DLBCL has been described in the literature; however, coexpression of 2 or more T antigens is rare. We report a case with a well-established diagnosis of DLBCL, coexpressing 3 T-cell antigens, CD4, CD5, and CD8. Although the clinical significance of T antigen coexpression in DLBCL is unclear, it is important to be aware of such phenotypic plasticity to ensure accurate diagnoses are made. The expression of multiple T-cell antigens may introduce diagnostic confusion and make subclassification of a lymphoma using World Health Organization criteria difficult.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged, 80 and over
  • CD4 Antigens / metabolism*
  • CD5 Antigens / metabolism*
  • CD8 Antigens / metabolism*
  • Clone Cells
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / pathology
  • Humans
  • Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse / diagnosis*
  • Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse / pathology
  • Male
  • T-Lymphocytes / metabolism
  • World Health Organization

Substances

  • CD4 Antigens
  • CD5 Antigens
  • CD8 Antigens