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Lymphoid Proliferations
Characteristics of Lymphocytes
They originate in the bone marrow & differentiate in
primary lymphoid tissues:
They circulate in the peripheral blood & migrate into
secondary organs (ex: lymph nodes).
Differentiating the Types of Lymphocytes
Flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry: use markers 
antibodies which will react with their specific type:
 All lymphocytes: CD45
 B lymphocytes: CD20, CD79(a)
 T lymphocytes: CD2, CD3 (predominant), CD4, CD5, CD8.
B cells express different antigens throughout their
development:
Phagocytic Cells
 Monocytes: WBC that differentiate into macrophages,
involved in immunity.
 Histiocytes: phagocytic tissue monocytes that produce
cytokines.
 Macrophages: histiocytes w/ more phagocytic function.
 Multinucleated cell: fused histiocytes.
 Dendritic cell: APC to T cell.
 Langerhan cell: APC.
Causes of Enlarged Nodes
Can be benign or malignant:
Lymphoid Tissue Proliferation
Clinical Signs:
1. Lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly
2. Thymic enlargement, marrow expansion
3. Masses in nasopharynx, GIT, etc.
4. Night sweats: very important (if patients comes in
with night sweats worry if they have a lymphoma).
5. Recurrent infection: marrow produces immature cells
that cant function; marrow failure  reduced bone
products  anaemia, infection, bleeding.
T cells Thymus; cell mediated immunity; 70% in blood;
paracortex of nodal tissue.
B cells Bone Marrow; humoral immunity; 10% in blood;
cortex of nodal tissue.
Null cells Not B/T cell marker responsive; 20% in blood;
NK cells May react with T cells.
Lymphopenia
(Low lymphocyte count)
Lymphocytosis
(High lymphocyte count)
 Advanced HIV infection
 Congenital immune
deficiency syndromes
 Steroids
 Chemotherapeutic drugs
 Autoimmune diseases
 Viral infection (infectious
mononucleosis)
 Rare bacterial infections
(Whooping cough,
Tuberculosis, Brucellosis)
Benign Reactive Hyperplasia
Patterns:
1. Cortex follicular hyperplasia  B cells in germinal
centre of cortex mainly
 Non-specific reaction
 Infection/immune stimulation
Macrophages may be present in follicle centre.
2. Paracortical hyperplasia  T cells mainly
3. Sinus histiocytosis
 Dilated sinuses
 Histiocytes
 Lymphocytes
 Antigen presenting cells
Journey through sinuses: afferent lymphatics  sub-
capsular sinuses  cortical sinuses  medullary
sinuses  efferent lymphatics (metastasis initially
spreads to this part of the node).
Most reactive nodes have a combination of these.
Causes:
1. Infections (always discuss the types)
 Bacterial (syphilis, brucellosis, cat scratch disease)
 Viral (infectious mononucleosis)
 Protozoal
2. Granulomas (TB, Sarcoid, Crohns, Fungi)
3. Deposits (Amyloid)
4. Immune Reactions (Rheumatoid arthritis, SLE)
5. Storage Disorders (Gauchers disease - histiocytes/
macrophages contain undigested material)
Classification
Acute Reactive Lymphadenitis
Lymphadenopathy secondary to bacterial or viral infection
in the area drained by the lymph node. Lymph node is
enlarged and tender ex: cervical nodes in acute
streptococcal tonsillitis.
Histology:
 Preserved architecture
 Follicular hyperplasia
 Neutrophilic infiltrate and abscess formation
Chronic Reactive Lymphadenitis
A response to chronic antigen exposure
 Immune-mediated/Collagen vascular disease:
1. Rheumatoid arthritis  Generalised
lymphadenopathy & follicular hyperplasia
2. Sj旦grens syndrome  Increased risk of
lymphoma & follicular hyperplasia
3. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) --> Cervical
lymphadenopathy & follicular hyperplasia
Different markers are used
for different stages of B cell
proliferates; CD20 doesnt
stain plasma cells
-
Investigation of an Enlarged Lymph Node
Diagnostic Questions:
 Is the node benign or malignant?
 If benign is there an identifiable cause for node
enlargement?
 If malignant is it a carcinoma, lymphoma (most
likely), melanoma or sarcoma?
 If it is a metastatic carcinoma, where is the primary
site?
1. Proper history and clinical examination. Ask:
 Evidence of recent infection?
 Evidence of malignancy in adjacent lymphatic
draining site?
 Any localising symptoms?
 Any weight loss?
 Any night sweats?
 Duration of lymphadenopathy?
 Are nodes sore/tender?
3. Investigations:
 FBC
 CRP (C-reactive Protein)  indicates inflammation
 LDH  indicates RBC lysis
 Viral screen
 Chest X-ray
 CT chest and abdomen
 Biopsy (to investigate histology)
1. Fine needle aspiration/biopsy
2. Incisional biopsy
3. Excision of whole node  ensures that
malignant portion is not missed & is thus the best
sample.
4. Bone marrow trephine
NB: enlarged retroperitoneal nodes present because
theyre in the abdomen and need to be very large to be
felt.
Malignant (Lymph Node Enlargement)
Causes:
Primary:
 Lymphoma
 Leukaemia
Secondary:
 Metastatic carcinoma  commonest
 Metastatic melanoma
 Metastatic sarcoma  rare
 Others i.e. Germ cell  rare
To investigate likely primary site of a metastasis in a node:
 Suspect the area which drains that node:
Examples:
1. Metastasis in inguinal node  due to melanoma of skin
of lower limb (not squamous cell carcinoma because it
rarely metastasises)
2. Metastasis in supraclavicular node  upper GIT
carcinoma, bronchogenic carcinoma, breast
3. Metastasis in cervical node  nasopharyngeal
carcinoma, oropharyngeal carcinoma, head and neck
carcinoma, salivary glands, thyroid.
4. Metastasis in axillary node  breast carcinoma
5. Melanoma  check anal skin and retina for primary site.
Histological features that identify type of malignancy:
Morphological features that suggest a carcinoma:
 Keratin Squamous cell carcinoma
 Mucin Adenocarcinoma
 Tubules Adenocarcinoma
If morphological features are not evident, we use tumour
markers:
 Cytokeratin CK  Epithelial Metastatic Carcinoma
 Vimentin  Mesenchymal
 CD45  Common Leucocyte Antigen  Lymphoma
 S100P and HMB45  Melanoma
o If an undifferentiated malignancy in a lymph node is
CD45 (Common Leucocyte antigen) positive, then
diagnosis is of a LYMPHOMA.
o If an undifferentiated neoplasm is Cytokeratin (CK)
positive it is a metastatic carcinoma.
Lymphoma
Definition
Malignant neoplasm of lymphoid cells that may be nodal or
extra-nodal. Divided into Hodgkin & non-Hodgkin
lymphoma.
Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL)  20%
Characteristics
Malignancy of Reed-Sternberg (RS) cells and Hodgkin cells.
They secrete cytokines that attract benign reactive cells
including lymphocytes, plasma cells, macrophages and
eosinophils and may lead to fibrosis.
 RS cells: bi-nucleated B cells with large vesicular
nuclei and prominent eosinophilic (pink) nucleoli.
 Hodgkin cells: larger mononuclear RS cells.
Bimodal Age Distribution: Peaks: 20s-30s (60-70%) & >60s.
Usually presents as an enlarged, firm node  usually cervical.
Immunohistochemistry Markers
CD15+, CD30+ and no CD20, CD45.
Clinical Presentation
 Commonest: persistent lymphadenopathy (usually in
neck or mediastinum). Mediastinal  superior vena cava
syndrome.
 B Symptoms (FAWN): fever, night sweats, weight loss,
anaemia.
 Pruritis (itchy skin) & pain located at the site of nodal
enlargement & which is exacerbated by drinking alcohol.
 Hepatosplenomegaly.
 Extra nodal swelling.
Grading/Rye Classification
Based on microscopic grounds: amount of lymphocytes,
types of RS cells & degree of fibrosis:
1. Nodular Lymphocyte Predominant Hodgkin
Lymphoma
 A controversial entity in that the RS cells stain positively
for B cell markers (and so may actually be a B cell NHL).
 The popcorn RS cell is characteristic.
 Lymphocytes make up the reactive cell population and
may be so numerous as to obscure the often scanty RS
cells.
2. Classical Hodgkin
Staging (Ann Arbor Staging) & Diagnosis
Done radiologically using: chest x-ray, CT, MRI, PET (after
some treatment to monitor lymph node size), bone
aspirate, bone trephine, presence/absence of B symptoms,
LDH level (dead lymphocytes), performance index
(determines how well patient will withstand treatment)
 Stage 1: 1 lymph node region/1 lymphoid organ.
 Stage 2: 2 or more lymph node regions on the same side
(LHS or RHS) of the diaphragm.
 Stage 3: nodes both sides of diaphragm.
 Stage 4: involvement of extra-nodal sites: liver, bone,
lung, and nodes.
Prognosis
 80% excellent response to treatment and many cured.
 Prognosis worsens with presence of B symptoms, age >
60, stage III or IV and increased LDH level of activity.
 Many associated with EBV infection.
Lookalikes: need to be separated from Hodgkin disease
using Immunomarkers:
 Ki1 Lymphoma (anaplastic large cell lymphoma)
 T cell lymphoma
 T cell rich B cell lymphoma
Non Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL)  70-
80%
Characteristics/Classification
 Commonly extra-nodal: 70-80%
 The REAL classification system and divides diseases into
T cell, B cell and null cell lymphomas.
 Can be B cell or T cell, low grade (small cell size) or high
grade (large cell size).
Immunohistochemistry Markers Used
 CD20 and CD79  B Cell Lymphomas
 CD3  T Cell lymphomas
 BCL2 and CD10  Follicular lymphoma
 CD5 and CD23  Small cell lymphocytic Lymphoma
 Cyclin D1  Mantle cell lymphoma
Diagnostic Steps
 Immunohistochemistry is not sensitive enough for Dx.
 Molecular studies are required to show monoclonality
e.g. gene rearrangements.
 Clonality to diagnose malignancy  Monoclonal
(important)
 B Cell Lymphomas  Ig gene rearrangements.
 T Cell lymphomas  T cell receptor rearrangements.
 IHC to diagnose type of lymphoma.
 Ann Arbor Staging is also used here.
Comparison Table
Most common HL.
Thick bands of sclerotic
collagen divide the lymph
node into nodules.
RS or Hodgkin cells.
Eosinophils are prominent.
Granulomas and necrosis are
frequent and may lead to
confusion with tuberculosis.
The rarest & most aggressive
form of HL.
Pleomorphic RS cells.
Sclerosis may be prominent.
HL NHL
Incidence Less than NHL More than HL
Cell of origin B-cells B or T cells
Type of Cell RSC No characteristic cells
Age Commonly young adults Older adults
L.N spread Contiguously (orderly) Sporadic
B-symptoms Common Less common (>20% of
patients)
Extra-nodal Less common More common
Cure Most Some
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) contd
B cell NH-Lymphomas:
B Cell
Lymphoma
Cell of Origin &
Markers
Pathogenesis & Presentation Epidemiology & Prognostics
Follicular B Cell
Lymphoma
Centrocyte/
Centroblast
BCL2 & CD10.
Definition: Small neoplastic B cells form follicle-like nodules.
Cause: t(14;18) BCL2.
Pathogenesis: Antiapoptotic BCL2 gene on chromosome 18 translocated to chromosome 14
 overexpression of anti-apoptotic proteins  B cell proliferation.
NB: Follicular Lymphoma is BCL2 positive, monoclonal, destroys lymph node architecture
and doesnt have tingible body macrophages where as reactive follicular hyperplasia is the
opposite.
One of the commonest lymphomas:
 Affects >50 years
 60% stage III or IV at presentation.
 Rarely get cured but indolent (not
aggressive) and progressive disease.
 70% - 5 year survival.
 20% - transform to high grade.
Small Cell
Lymphocytic
Lymphoma
Lymphocyte
CD5 & CD23
Definition: Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia that has spread to/manifested in the tissues.
Presentation: Widespread adenopathy, Splenomegaly, decreased Ig  increased infection
 5-10% Richters Syndrome  high grade
transformation (cells become big)
 Commonly stage III or IV because
asymptomatic at presentation.
Mantle Cell
Lymphoma
Mantle cells
Cyclin D1
Definition: diffuse replacement of node by malignant/neoplastic mantle B-cells.
Cause: t(11;14) Cyclin D1.
Pathogenesis: Cyclin D1 gene on chromosome 11 translocated to chromosome 14  inc.
cyclin D1  more cells enter G1/S phase  increased proliferation.
<5% of all lymphomas (rarer):
 Age distribution: peak 60-70 years.
 Often high stage at presentation .
 20-40% - 5 year survival.
Marginal Zone
Lymphoma (ex:
Maltoma  GIT)
Marginal zone
cells
Definition: Extra-nodal lymphomas that are usually low grade.
Predisposing Factors: Antigen Challenge.
Pathogenesis: associated with and found in chronic inflammatory conditions:
GIT HLO in stomach, Thyroid Hashimotos, Salivary gland Sjogrens, Lungs
Due to increased cell turnover precipitated by the underlying condition
Diffuse Large Cell
B Cell
Lymphoma
Centroblasts Definition: Large mononuclear neoplastic B cells proliferate and can spread to extra-nodal
sites.
Commonest high grade B cell lymphoma:
 Aggressive but curable.
Lymphoblastic B
Cell Lymphoma
Lymphoblast Rare (Majority are T cell LBLs); Bone lytic lesions.  Many children and young adults
Burkitts
Lymphoma
Lymphoblast,
EBV + & activated
c-Myc
Definition: Type of lymphoblastic lymphoma. Intermediate B cell proliferation.
Cause: t(8;14) c-Myc.
Pathogenesis: EBV associated, c-Myc translocation from chromosome 8 to 14 present
deregulation of oncogenic function  increased cell growth.
Clinical Presentation: extra-nodal mass in jaw, GIT, gonads in young adults/kids. IHC  starry
sky appearance on microscopy.
 African form  jaw.
 Sporadic form  abdomen.
 Rare in Europe.
 Occurs in children and adolescents.
Lymphocyte, Mantle cell, Marginal cell, Lymphoblast, Immunoblast,
Centrocyte/Cleaved FCC  follicle centre cell
Centroblast/Non cleaved FCC
Plasma cell  large B cells
F.C.C.
Cleaved &
non-cleaved
Aka  centrocytes/
centroblasts Histiocytes Mantle cells
Marginal Cells
Plasma
cell
Lymphocytes
L
O
W
G
R
A
D
E
H
I
G
H
G
R
A
D
E
T cell NH-Lymphomas
Low Grade
1. Mycosis Fungoides  T cell lymphoma producing scaly,
pruritic, well-demarcated skin plaques and patches. In
the later stages of the disease, mushroom-shaped
tumours develop within the plaque lesions, and
ultimately lymphadenopathy and hepatosplenomegaly
can develop.
 Occurs in adults
 12 year survival
2. Sezary syndrome  Cutaneous (skin) T-cell lymphoma
with leukaemic dissemination of mutated T cells (which
distinguishes it from mycosis fungoides). It thus
becomes a T cell leukaemia and is considered an
advanced stage of mycosis fungoides.
3. T cell Chronic Lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL)
High Grade
1. Peripheral T CellLymphoma (most high grade are
classified as this)
2. Enteropathy associated T CellLymphoma (EATL)  It is a
complication of celiac disease, occurs in the small bowel
and is commoner in those with poor dietary control.
3. T Lymphoblastic Lymphoma
 Young adults but very rare
 Rapid enlargement of nodes
 On histology, large lymphoid cells that react with T
lymphocyte markers
4. T Adult T cell leukaemia/lymphoma
 Rare
 Japan/Caribbean
 HTLV1 Virus
 Hypercalcaemia (PTH)
Other Lymphomas
1. Extra-Nodal Lymphoma
 Lymphomas of mucosa and non-nodal tissue
2. Nasal Lymphoma
 High grade lymphoma of nose
 Null of NK cells
 Common in Asia but uncommon in Europe
 EBV associated
Causes of Lymphoma
1. Antigen challenge: the first encounter between an
immunocompetent lymphocyte and an invading
antigen.
2. Viruses
 EBV associated with: Burkitts, Nasal lymphomas,
Hodgkins (BNH)
3. Immunodeficiency
4. Radiation
5. Previous chemotherapy
Leukaemia vs Lymphoma
Summary of Management (for ALL NHLs)
Diagnosis 
 Radiologist takes the trucut
 Painless persistent enlargement of node 賊 B symptoms
 Loss of normal architecture (not reactive follicular
hyperplasia)
 Monoclonality  malignancy (determined by molecular
studies of gene rearrangements)
 Hodgkin or Non Hodgkin
 Reed Sternberg cell  Dx Hodgkins
 No RS cells Dx  Non Hodgkins
 Small cells (Low Grade) or large cells High Grade)
replace node
 Lymphoid markers are essential to type lymphoma
correctly
 Molecular markers now being increasingly used
Grade  Rye Grading
Stage  Ann Arbor Staging  CT, PET, BMT
Treatment 
 Rituximab B cell (CD20 monoclonal antibody)
 Chemotherapy
 Radiotherapy
 Bone marrow transplant
Lymphoma Leukaemia
High WCC >20,000 Normal WCC
Patchy marrow involvement Extensive marrow
replacement
Little lymphadenopathy Prominent
lymphadenopathy
Thymus
The thymus arises from the endoderm of 3rd and 4th
branchial pouch. It migrates down from the neck to the
mediastinum where it houses T cells and produces
hormones that allow them to mature further.
Thymus gets smaller after birth and is almost completely
atrophied in adults.
Functions of Thymus
 Responsible for differentiation and direction of T cells
 Central role in cell mediated immunity
Enlargement of Thymus
1. Myasthenia gravis
 80% thymic hyperplasia  autoimmune thymitis
 80% AChr antibody  against myeloid cells
 15% get thymoma
 Treatment  Thymectomy
2. Thymomas (epithelial neoplasm of thymus; oma
doesnt indicate benign or malignant - can be either)
 May present with associated diseases:
 30% myasthenia gravis
 Rheumatoid arthritis
 Sjogrens syndrome
 Anterior mediastinal mass
 NB: Prognosis behaviour correlates with grade
3. Lymphomas
 T cell  most are T cell
 B cell
4. Germ cell tumours
5. Carcinoid tumours
Spleen
 White pulp: lymphoid follicles (Malpighian bodies).
 Red pulp: venous sinuses & cords (lymphocytes).
 Weight: 120-150g.
Functions of Spleen
Splenic Atrophy
 Physiological  old age.
 Sickle cell disease  sickle cells get trapped in blood
vessels that supply the spleen  spleen becomes
infarcted in areas  heals by fibrosis  small spleen.
 Coeliac disease  idiopathic.
Splenomegaly
Splenomegaly causes: hypersplenism which is the
enlargement of spleen for any reason causing destruction
of blood cells and consequently a reduction in these cells in
the peripheral blood  anaemia, thrombocytopenia &
leukopenia.
Causes of splenomegaly include:
1. Congestive
 Cirrhosis of liver  portal vein thrombus  inc.
pressure on the splenic vein.
2. Collagen Vascular Diseases (Autoimmune Disorders)
 Rheumatoid arthritis
 Systematic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
 Polyarteritis Nodosa (PAN)
3. Storage Disorders
 Hyperlipidaemias
 Lipid storage disorders
 Gauchers disease
 Neiman Picks Disease
4. Infections
 Malaria
 Leishmaniasis (protozoal)
 Infectious mononucleosis  spontaneous rupture
 Brucellosis
 S.B.E  subacute bacterial endocarditis
 Endocarditis  septic emboli from endocarditis go to
the spleen  abscess.
NB: Splenomegaly due to infection is more seen in
children and when seen in adults more due to viral than
bacterial infection (esp. infectious mono).
5. Amyloidosis
6. Disorders of blood & marrow
 Leukaemias and Lymphomas
 Haemolytic anaemia  red cells broken down by
histiocytes & macrophages in spleen  gets bigger.
 Myelofibrosis  myelo = fibrosis; spleen cant
produce red cells & blood components so function
taken over by the liver.
 Myeloproliferative disorders
Myeloproliferative Cell
Neoplasms/Disorders
Clonal neoplastic proliferation of stem cells, affecting all cell
lines of the bone marrow with variable clinical presentation
and variable prognosis (excluding acute leukaemia).
 Diagnosis
 Clinical presentation  (3 conditions)
 FBC
 BMT and BM aspirate
 Pathogenesis  activating mutation in gene coding for
tyrosine kinases.
Characteristics
1. Arise from common stem cell cases with intermediate
features
2. Frequent evolution of 1 type to another
3. Invariable involvement of more than 1 cell line  due to
an abnormal clone with increased sensitivity to growth
factors.
4. Occur in people > 50 years
5. Splenomegaly
6. Mutation of the tyrosine kinase JAK2 (Janus kinase  2
gene). Causes increased sensitivity to intercellular
signalling from growth factors.
Presentation
Concepts
 Excess of one cell type may cause a decrease of other
cell types
High content of one cell type may cause symptoms
 Anaemia and infection
 Bleeding/thrombosis
 Hyperviscosity syndrome
Tumour Markers in Nodes & Spleen, Thymus and
Bone Marrow
1. Haemopoiesis
2. Antibody formation
3. Cell sequestration
4. Cell destruction
5. Iron metabolism
6. Phagocytosis
1. Chronic granulocytic/myeloid leukaemia
(commonest)
2. Myelofibrosis  60% JAK2
3. Polycythaemia rubra vera (RBC)  90% JAK2
4. Essential thrombocythaemia/ Thrombocytosis
(Platelets)  60% JAK2
1) Chronic Myeloid/Granulocytic
Leukaemia
(CML/CGL)
 Neoplastic proliferation of stem cells that differentiate
into mature myeloid cells, especially granulocytes
(characteristically basophils).
 Characterised by Philadelphia fusion chromosome 
t(9;22) which results in a BCR-ABL fusion protein with
increased tyrosine kinase activity.
 This is also an MPD (Myeloproliferative Disorder).
Presentation
 Marrow replacement with/without failure  anaemia,
bleeding, bruising, infection.
 Marked leucocytosis  50,000 abnormal.
 Marked hepatosplenomegaly.
 Weight loss.
Epidemiology
 Middle age 40-60 years.
Diagnosis
1. WCC above 100,000 instead of 7,000
2. Increased blasts in the peripheral blood  too many
being released (shouldnt normally be there)  can
become a crisis.
3. PHI chromosome 22.9 (used to)
4. BCR-ABL rearrangement diagnostic of CML.
2) Myelofibrosis - 60% JAK2
Neoplastic proliferation of mature myeloid cells especially
megakaryocytes.
Primary Myelofibrosis:
Megakaryocytes produce excess platelet-derived growth
factor (PDGF)  marrow fibrosis.
Secondary Myelofibrosis:
 Metastases to marrow
 Radiotherapy to marrow
 Cytotoxic drugs
Presentation
 Fibrosis reduces marrows haematopoietic capability 
migration of erythroid precursors to spleen & liver 
extramedullary haematopoiesis  hepato-
splenomegaly & poikilocytosis (abnormal RBCs).
 Loss of marrow cells
 Terminal blast crisis
 Life expectancy - 7 years
Treatment
 Supportive
 Marrow stimulation
 +/- Splenectomy (cells being produced are being
destroyed in the spleen remove it to salvage the
few being produced)
3) Essential
thrombocythemia/thrombocytosis
(platelets) - 60% JAK2
Neoplastic proliferation of mature myeloid cells especially
platelets.
Presentation:
 Increased platelet count: 1 million; (normal: 350,000)
 Bleeding/thrombotic abnormalities
 Enlarged spleen
 Enlarged liver
Treatment
 Hydroxyurea
4) Polycythaemia Rubra Vera  90%
JAK2
Neoplastic proliferation of mature myeloid cells especially
RBCs  increased red cell volume.
Primary Polycythaemia:
 Malignancy of red blood cells
 High Hb and Haematocrit
Secondary Polycythaemia:
 High altitudes
 Congenital Heart Disease
 Tumours (e.g. renal cell carcinoma )
 Erythropoietin production (e.g. renal carcinoma)
Presentation
 Red face (jumping jacks  JAK  red face)
 Thrombotic and haemorrhagic events
 Increased Hb
 Enlarged spleen
 Marrow erythropoiesis
Treatment
1. 1st line: Phlebotomies (older patients): remove excess
cells by removing blood.
2. 2nd line: Hydroxyurea (myelosuppressive treatment)
3. Exclude secondary causes
4. Radiotherapy with 32P isotope.
Prognosis: 50%= 12 year survival (usually terminal with blast
crisis).
Investigations
 FBC
 Leukocyte ALK phosphatase (LAP) differentiates CML from other
causes of leucocytosis
 BCR-Abl gene rearrangement
 Uric acid
 JAK2
 BMT  bone marrow trephine (always have to do this)
Myelodysplastic Syndrome
Smouldering neoplastic proliferation of stem cells of bone marrow,
majority terminate after 1-3 years in leukaemia (more aggressive)
occurs in younger ppl
 A pre-leukaemic disorder
 Usually low peripheral cell count with hypercellular marrow
 Often in Myeloproliferative cell neoplasms/disorders you have a
high peripheral cell count and hypercellular marrow 
 Associated with a variety of chromosomal abnormalities
 Diagnosis based on clinical haematological and bone trephine
 May follow previous chemotherapy treatment or may occur de
novo
 Classification of myelodysplasia depends on which cell line shows
the dominant abnormality.
 There are 8 different types
 These are difficult to diagnose and require cytogenetic
studies and correlation between the marrow aspirate and
the FBC etc
 Some will progress into Leukaemia within 2 years

More Related Content

Lymphoid Proliferations.pptx

  • 1. Lymphoid Proliferations Characteristics of Lymphocytes They originate in the bone marrow & differentiate in primary lymphoid tissues: They circulate in the peripheral blood & migrate into secondary organs (ex: lymph nodes). Differentiating the Types of Lymphocytes Flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry: use markers antibodies which will react with their specific type: All lymphocytes: CD45 B lymphocytes: CD20, CD79(a) T lymphocytes: CD2, CD3 (predominant), CD4, CD5, CD8. B cells express different antigens throughout their development: Phagocytic Cells Monocytes: WBC that differentiate into macrophages, involved in immunity. Histiocytes: phagocytic tissue monocytes that produce cytokines. Macrophages: histiocytes w/ more phagocytic function. Multinucleated cell: fused histiocytes. Dendritic cell: APC to T cell. Langerhan cell: APC. Causes of Enlarged Nodes Can be benign or malignant: Lymphoid Tissue Proliferation Clinical Signs: 1. Lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly 2. Thymic enlargement, marrow expansion 3. Masses in nasopharynx, GIT, etc. 4. Night sweats: very important (if patients comes in with night sweats worry if they have a lymphoma). 5. Recurrent infection: marrow produces immature cells that cant function; marrow failure reduced bone products anaemia, infection, bleeding. T cells Thymus; cell mediated immunity; 70% in blood; paracortex of nodal tissue. B cells Bone Marrow; humoral immunity; 10% in blood; cortex of nodal tissue. Null cells Not B/T cell marker responsive; 20% in blood; NK cells May react with T cells. Lymphopenia (Low lymphocyte count) Lymphocytosis (High lymphocyte count) Advanced HIV infection Congenital immune deficiency syndromes Steroids Chemotherapeutic drugs Autoimmune diseases Viral infection (infectious mononucleosis) Rare bacterial infections (Whooping cough, Tuberculosis, Brucellosis) Benign Reactive Hyperplasia Patterns: 1. Cortex follicular hyperplasia B cells in germinal centre of cortex mainly Non-specific reaction Infection/immune stimulation Macrophages may be present in follicle centre. 2. Paracortical hyperplasia T cells mainly 3. Sinus histiocytosis Dilated sinuses Histiocytes Lymphocytes Antigen presenting cells Journey through sinuses: afferent lymphatics sub- capsular sinuses cortical sinuses medullary sinuses efferent lymphatics (metastasis initially spreads to this part of the node). Most reactive nodes have a combination of these. Causes: 1. Infections (always discuss the types) Bacterial (syphilis, brucellosis, cat scratch disease) Viral (infectious mononucleosis) Protozoal 2. Granulomas (TB, Sarcoid, Crohns, Fungi) 3. Deposits (Amyloid) 4. Immune Reactions (Rheumatoid arthritis, SLE) 5. Storage Disorders (Gauchers disease - histiocytes/ macrophages contain undigested material) Classification Acute Reactive Lymphadenitis Lymphadenopathy secondary to bacterial or viral infection in the area drained by the lymph node. Lymph node is enlarged and tender ex: cervical nodes in acute streptococcal tonsillitis. Histology: Preserved architecture Follicular hyperplasia Neutrophilic infiltrate and abscess formation Chronic Reactive Lymphadenitis A response to chronic antigen exposure Immune-mediated/Collagen vascular disease: 1. Rheumatoid arthritis Generalised lymphadenopathy & follicular hyperplasia 2. Sj旦grens syndrome Increased risk of lymphoma & follicular hyperplasia 3. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) --> Cervical lymphadenopathy & follicular hyperplasia Different markers are used for different stages of B cell proliferates; CD20 doesnt stain plasma cells -
  • 2. Investigation of an Enlarged Lymph Node Diagnostic Questions: Is the node benign or malignant? If benign is there an identifiable cause for node enlargement? If malignant is it a carcinoma, lymphoma (most likely), melanoma or sarcoma? If it is a metastatic carcinoma, where is the primary site? 1. Proper history and clinical examination. Ask: Evidence of recent infection? Evidence of malignancy in adjacent lymphatic draining site? Any localising symptoms? Any weight loss? Any night sweats? Duration of lymphadenopathy? Are nodes sore/tender? 3. Investigations: FBC CRP (C-reactive Protein) indicates inflammation LDH indicates RBC lysis Viral screen Chest X-ray CT chest and abdomen Biopsy (to investigate histology) 1. Fine needle aspiration/biopsy 2. Incisional biopsy 3. Excision of whole node ensures that malignant portion is not missed & is thus the best sample. 4. Bone marrow trephine NB: enlarged retroperitoneal nodes present because theyre in the abdomen and need to be very large to be felt. Malignant (Lymph Node Enlargement) Causes: Primary: Lymphoma Leukaemia Secondary: Metastatic carcinoma commonest Metastatic melanoma Metastatic sarcoma rare Others i.e. Germ cell rare To investigate likely primary site of a metastasis in a node: Suspect the area which drains that node: Examples: 1. Metastasis in inguinal node due to melanoma of skin of lower limb (not squamous cell carcinoma because it rarely metastasises) 2. Metastasis in supraclavicular node upper GIT carcinoma, bronchogenic carcinoma, breast 3. Metastasis in cervical node nasopharyngeal carcinoma, oropharyngeal carcinoma, head and neck carcinoma, salivary glands, thyroid. 4. Metastasis in axillary node breast carcinoma 5. Melanoma check anal skin and retina for primary site. Histological features that identify type of malignancy: Morphological features that suggest a carcinoma: Keratin Squamous cell carcinoma Mucin Adenocarcinoma Tubules Adenocarcinoma If morphological features are not evident, we use tumour markers: Cytokeratin CK Epithelial Metastatic Carcinoma Vimentin Mesenchymal CD45 Common Leucocyte Antigen Lymphoma S100P and HMB45 Melanoma o If an undifferentiated malignancy in a lymph node is CD45 (Common Leucocyte antigen) positive, then diagnosis is of a LYMPHOMA. o If an undifferentiated neoplasm is Cytokeratin (CK) positive it is a metastatic carcinoma.
  • 3. Lymphoma Definition Malignant neoplasm of lymphoid cells that may be nodal or extra-nodal. Divided into Hodgkin & non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL) 20% Characteristics Malignancy of Reed-Sternberg (RS) cells and Hodgkin cells. They secrete cytokines that attract benign reactive cells including lymphocytes, plasma cells, macrophages and eosinophils and may lead to fibrosis. RS cells: bi-nucleated B cells with large vesicular nuclei and prominent eosinophilic (pink) nucleoli. Hodgkin cells: larger mononuclear RS cells. Bimodal Age Distribution: Peaks: 20s-30s (60-70%) & >60s. Usually presents as an enlarged, firm node usually cervical. Immunohistochemistry Markers CD15+, CD30+ and no CD20, CD45. Clinical Presentation Commonest: persistent lymphadenopathy (usually in neck or mediastinum). Mediastinal superior vena cava syndrome. B Symptoms (FAWN): fever, night sweats, weight loss, anaemia. Pruritis (itchy skin) & pain located at the site of nodal enlargement & which is exacerbated by drinking alcohol. Hepatosplenomegaly. Extra nodal swelling. Grading/Rye Classification Based on microscopic grounds: amount of lymphocytes, types of RS cells & degree of fibrosis: 1. Nodular Lymphocyte Predominant Hodgkin Lymphoma A controversial entity in that the RS cells stain positively for B cell markers (and so may actually be a B cell NHL). The popcorn RS cell is characteristic. Lymphocytes make up the reactive cell population and may be so numerous as to obscure the often scanty RS cells. 2. Classical Hodgkin Staging (Ann Arbor Staging) & Diagnosis Done radiologically using: chest x-ray, CT, MRI, PET (after some treatment to monitor lymph node size), bone aspirate, bone trephine, presence/absence of B symptoms, LDH level (dead lymphocytes), performance index (determines how well patient will withstand treatment) Stage 1: 1 lymph node region/1 lymphoid organ. Stage 2: 2 or more lymph node regions on the same side (LHS or RHS) of the diaphragm. Stage 3: nodes both sides of diaphragm. Stage 4: involvement of extra-nodal sites: liver, bone, lung, and nodes. Prognosis 80% excellent response to treatment and many cured. Prognosis worsens with presence of B symptoms, age > 60, stage III or IV and increased LDH level of activity. Many associated with EBV infection. Lookalikes: need to be separated from Hodgkin disease using Immunomarkers: Ki1 Lymphoma (anaplastic large cell lymphoma) T cell lymphoma T cell rich B cell lymphoma Non Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) 70- 80% Characteristics/Classification Commonly extra-nodal: 70-80% The REAL classification system and divides diseases into T cell, B cell and null cell lymphomas. Can be B cell or T cell, low grade (small cell size) or high grade (large cell size). Immunohistochemistry Markers Used CD20 and CD79 B Cell Lymphomas CD3 T Cell lymphomas BCL2 and CD10 Follicular lymphoma CD5 and CD23 Small cell lymphocytic Lymphoma Cyclin D1 Mantle cell lymphoma Diagnostic Steps Immunohistochemistry is not sensitive enough for Dx. Molecular studies are required to show monoclonality e.g. gene rearrangements. Clonality to diagnose malignancy Monoclonal (important) B Cell Lymphomas Ig gene rearrangements. T Cell lymphomas T cell receptor rearrangements. IHC to diagnose type of lymphoma. Ann Arbor Staging is also used here. Comparison Table Most common HL. Thick bands of sclerotic collagen divide the lymph node into nodules. RS or Hodgkin cells. Eosinophils are prominent. Granulomas and necrosis are frequent and may lead to confusion with tuberculosis. The rarest & most aggressive form of HL. Pleomorphic RS cells. Sclerosis may be prominent. HL NHL Incidence Less than NHL More than HL Cell of origin B-cells B or T cells Type of Cell RSC No characteristic cells Age Commonly young adults Older adults L.N spread Contiguously (orderly) Sporadic B-symptoms Common Less common (>20% of patients) Extra-nodal Less common More common Cure Most Some
  • 4. Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) contd B cell NH-Lymphomas: B Cell Lymphoma Cell of Origin & Markers Pathogenesis & Presentation Epidemiology & Prognostics Follicular B Cell Lymphoma Centrocyte/ Centroblast BCL2 & CD10. Definition: Small neoplastic B cells form follicle-like nodules. Cause: t(14;18) BCL2. Pathogenesis: Antiapoptotic BCL2 gene on chromosome 18 translocated to chromosome 14 overexpression of anti-apoptotic proteins B cell proliferation. NB: Follicular Lymphoma is BCL2 positive, monoclonal, destroys lymph node architecture and doesnt have tingible body macrophages where as reactive follicular hyperplasia is the opposite. One of the commonest lymphomas: Affects >50 years 60% stage III or IV at presentation. Rarely get cured but indolent (not aggressive) and progressive disease. 70% - 5 year survival. 20% - transform to high grade. Small Cell Lymphocytic Lymphoma Lymphocyte CD5 & CD23 Definition: Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia that has spread to/manifested in the tissues. Presentation: Widespread adenopathy, Splenomegaly, decreased Ig increased infection 5-10% Richters Syndrome high grade transformation (cells become big) Commonly stage III or IV because asymptomatic at presentation. Mantle Cell Lymphoma Mantle cells Cyclin D1 Definition: diffuse replacement of node by malignant/neoplastic mantle B-cells. Cause: t(11;14) Cyclin D1. Pathogenesis: Cyclin D1 gene on chromosome 11 translocated to chromosome 14 inc. cyclin D1 more cells enter G1/S phase increased proliferation. <5% of all lymphomas (rarer): Age distribution: peak 60-70 years. Often high stage at presentation . 20-40% - 5 year survival. Marginal Zone Lymphoma (ex: Maltoma GIT) Marginal zone cells Definition: Extra-nodal lymphomas that are usually low grade. Predisposing Factors: Antigen Challenge. Pathogenesis: associated with and found in chronic inflammatory conditions: GIT HLO in stomach, Thyroid Hashimotos, Salivary gland Sjogrens, Lungs Due to increased cell turnover precipitated by the underlying condition Diffuse Large Cell B Cell Lymphoma Centroblasts Definition: Large mononuclear neoplastic B cells proliferate and can spread to extra-nodal sites. Commonest high grade B cell lymphoma: Aggressive but curable. Lymphoblastic B Cell Lymphoma Lymphoblast Rare (Majority are T cell LBLs); Bone lytic lesions. Many children and young adults Burkitts Lymphoma Lymphoblast, EBV + & activated c-Myc Definition: Type of lymphoblastic lymphoma. Intermediate B cell proliferation. Cause: t(8;14) c-Myc. Pathogenesis: EBV associated, c-Myc translocation from chromosome 8 to 14 present deregulation of oncogenic function increased cell growth. Clinical Presentation: extra-nodal mass in jaw, GIT, gonads in young adults/kids. IHC starry sky appearance on microscopy. African form jaw. Sporadic form abdomen. Rare in Europe. Occurs in children and adolescents. Lymphocyte, Mantle cell, Marginal cell, Lymphoblast, Immunoblast, Centrocyte/Cleaved FCC follicle centre cell Centroblast/Non cleaved FCC Plasma cell large B cells F.C.C. Cleaved & non-cleaved Aka centrocytes/ centroblasts Histiocytes Mantle cells Marginal Cells Plasma cell Lymphocytes L O W G R A D E H I G H G R A D E
  • 5. T cell NH-Lymphomas Low Grade 1. Mycosis Fungoides T cell lymphoma producing scaly, pruritic, well-demarcated skin plaques and patches. In the later stages of the disease, mushroom-shaped tumours develop within the plaque lesions, and ultimately lymphadenopathy and hepatosplenomegaly can develop. Occurs in adults 12 year survival 2. Sezary syndrome Cutaneous (skin) T-cell lymphoma with leukaemic dissemination of mutated T cells (which distinguishes it from mycosis fungoides). It thus becomes a T cell leukaemia and is considered an advanced stage of mycosis fungoides. 3. T cell Chronic Lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) High Grade 1. Peripheral T CellLymphoma (most high grade are classified as this) 2. Enteropathy associated T CellLymphoma (EATL) It is a complication of celiac disease, occurs in the small bowel and is commoner in those with poor dietary control. 3. T Lymphoblastic Lymphoma Young adults but very rare Rapid enlargement of nodes On histology, large lymphoid cells that react with T lymphocyte markers 4. T Adult T cell leukaemia/lymphoma Rare Japan/Caribbean HTLV1 Virus Hypercalcaemia (PTH) Other Lymphomas 1. Extra-Nodal Lymphoma Lymphomas of mucosa and non-nodal tissue 2. Nasal Lymphoma High grade lymphoma of nose Null of NK cells Common in Asia but uncommon in Europe EBV associated Causes of Lymphoma 1. Antigen challenge: the first encounter between an immunocompetent lymphocyte and an invading antigen. 2. Viruses EBV associated with: Burkitts, Nasal lymphomas, Hodgkins (BNH) 3. Immunodeficiency 4. Radiation 5. Previous chemotherapy Leukaemia vs Lymphoma Summary of Management (for ALL NHLs) Diagnosis Radiologist takes the trucut Painless persistent enlargement of node 賊 B symptoms Loss of normal architecture (not reactive follicular hyperplasia) Monoclonality malignancy (determined by molecular studies of gene rearrangements) Hodgkin or Non Hodgkin Reed Sternberg cell Dx Hodgkins No RS cells Dx Non Hodgkins Small cells (Low Grade) or large cells High Grade) replace node Lymphoid markers are essential to type lymphoma correctly Molecular markers now being increasingly used Grade Rye Grading Stage Ann Arbor Staging CT, PET, BMT Treatment Rituximab B cell (CD20 monoclonal antibody) Chemotherapy Radiotherapy Bone marrow transplant Lymphoma Leukaemia High WCC >20,000 Normal WCC Patchy marrow involvement Extensive marrow replacement Little lymphadenopathy Prominent lymphadenopathy
  • 6. Thymus The thymus arises from the endoderm of 3rd and 4th branchial pouch. It migrates down from the neck to the mediastinum where it houses T cells and produces hormones that allow them to mature further. Thymus gets smaller after birth and is almost completely atrophied in adults. Functions of Thymus Responsible for differentiation and direction of T cells Central role in cell mediated immunity Enlargement of Thymus 1. Myasthenia gravis 80% thymic hyperplasia autoimmune thymitis 80% AChr antibody against myeloid cells 15% get thymoma Treatment Thymectomy 2. Thymomas (epithelial neoplasm of thymus; oma doesnt indicate benign or malignant - can be either) May present with associated diseases: 30% myasthenia gravis Rheumatoid arthritis Sjogrens syndrome Anterior mediastinal mass NB: Prognosis behaviour correlates with grade 3. Lymphomas T cell most are T cell B cell 4. Germ cell tumours 5. Carcinoid tumours Spleen White pulp: lymphoid follicles (Malpighian bodies). Red pulp: venous sinuses & cords (lymphocytes). Weight: 120-150g. Functions of Spleen Splenic Atrophy Physiological old age. Sickle cell disease sickle cells get trapped in blood vessels that supply the spleen spleen becomes infarcted in areas heals by fibrosis small spleen. Coeliac disease idiopathic. Splenomegaly Splenomegaly causes: hypersplenism which is the enlargement of spleen for any reason causing destruction of blood cells and consequently a reduction in these cells in the peripheral blood anaemia, thrombocytopenia & leukopenia. Causes of splenomegaly include: 1. Congestive Cirrhosis of liver portal vein thrombus inc. pressure on the splenic vein. 2. Collagen Vascular Diseases (Autoimmune Disorders) Rheumatoid arthritis Systematic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) Polyarteritis Nodosa (PAN) 3. Storage Disorders Hyperlipidaemias Lipid storage disorders Gauchers disease Neiman Picks Disease 4. Infections Malaria Leishmaniasis (protozoal) Infectious mononucleosis spontaneous rupture Brucellosis S.B.E subacute bacterial endocarditis Endocarditis septic emboli from endocarditis go to the spleen abscess. NB: Splenomegaly due to infection is more seen in children and when seen in adults more due to viral than bacterial infection (esp. infectious mono). 5. Amyloidosis 6. Disorders of blood & marrow Leukaemias and Lymphomas Haemolytic anaemia red cells broken down by histiocytes & macrophages in spleen gets bigger. Myelofibrosis myelo = fibrosis; spleen cant produce red cells & blood components so function taken over by the liver. Myeloproliferative disorders Myeloproliferative Cell Neoplasms/Disorders Clonal neoplastic proliferation of stem cells, affecting all cell lines of the bone marrow with variable clinical presentation and variable prognosis (excluding acute leukaemia). Diagnosis Clinical presentation (3 conditions) FBC BMT and BM aspirate Pathogenesis activating mutation in gene coding for tyrosine kinases. Characteristics 1. Arise from common stem cell cases with intermediate features 2. Frequent evolution of 1 type to another 3. Invariable involvement of more than 1 cell line due to an abnormal clone with increased sensitivity to growth factors. 4. Occur in people > 50 years 5. Splenomegaly 6. Mutation of the tyrosine kinase JAK2 (Janus kinase 2 gene). Causes increased sensitivity to intercellular signalling from growth factors. Presentation Concepts Excess of one cell type may cause a decrease of other cell types High content of one cell type may cause symptoms Anaemia and infection Bleeding/thrombosis Hyperviscosity syndrome Tumour Markers in Nodes & Spleen, Thymus and Bone Marrow 1. Haemopoiesis 2. Antibody formation 3. Cell sequestration 4. Cell destruction 5. Iron metabolism 6. Phagocytosis
  • 7. 1. Chronic granulocytic/myeloid leukaemia (commonest) 2. Myelofibrosis 60% JAK2 3. Polycythaemia rubra vera (RBC) 90% JAK2 4. Essential thrombocythaemia/ Thrombocytosis (Platelets) 60% JAK2 1) Chronic Myeloid/Granulocytic Leukaemia (CML/CGL) Neoplastic proliferation of stem cells that differentiate into mature myeloid cells, especially granulocytes (characteristically basophils). Characterised by Philadelphia fusion chromosome t(9;22) which results in a BCR-ABL fusion protein with increased tyrosine kinase activity. This is also an MPD (Myeloproliferative Disorder). Presentation Marrow replacement with/without failure anaemia, bleeding, bruising, infection. Marked leucocytosis 50,000 abnormal. Marked hepatosplenomegaly. Weight loss. Epidemiology Middle age 40-60 years. Diagnosis 1. WCC above 100,000 instead of 7,000 2. Increased blasts in the peripheral blood too many being released (shouldnt normally be there) can become a crisis. 3. PHI chromosome 22.9 (used to) 4. BCR-ABL rearrangement diagnostic of CML. 2) Myelofibrosis - 60% JAK2 Neoplastic proliferation of mature myeloid cells especially megakaryocytes. Primary Myelofibrosis: Megakaryocytes produce excess platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) marrow fibrosis. Secondary Myelofibrosis: Metastases to marrow Radiotherapy to marrow Cytotoxic drugs Presentation Fibrosis reduces marrows haematopoietic capability migration of erythroid precursors to spleen & liver extramedullary haematopoiesis hepato- splenomegaly & poikilocytosis (abnormal RBCs). Loss of marrow cells Terminal blast crisis Life expectancy - 7 years Treatment Supportive Marrow stimulation +/- Splenectomy (cells being produced are being destroyed in the spleen remove it to salvage the few being produced) 3) Essential thrombocythemia/thrombocytosis (platelets) - 60% JAK2 Neoplastic proliferation of mature myeloid cells especially platelets. Presentation: Increased platelet count: 1 million; (normal: 350,000) Bleeding/thrombotic abnormalities Enlarged spleen Enlarged liver Treatment Hydroxyurea 4) Polycythaemia Rubra Vera 90% JAK2 Neoplastic proliferation of mature myeloid cells especially RBCs increased red cell volume. Primary Polycythaemia: Malignancy of red blood cells High Hb and Haematocrit Secondary Polycythaemia: High altitudes Congenital Heart Disease Tumours (e.g. renal cell carcinoma ) Erythropoietin production (e.g. renal carcinoma) Presentation Red face (jumping jacks JAK red face) Thrombotic and haemorrhagic events Increased Hb Enlarged spleen Marrow erythropoiesis Treatment 1. 1st line: Phlebotomies (older patients): remove excess cells by removing blood. 2. 2nd line: Hydroxyurea (myelosuppressive treatment) 3. Exclude secondary causes 4. Radiotherapy with 32P isotope. Prognosis: 50%= 12 year survival (usually terminal with blast crisis).
  • 8. Investigations FBC Leukocyte ALK phosphatase (LAP) differentiates CML from other causes of leucocytosis BCR-Abl gene rearrangement Uric acid JAK2 BMT bone marrow trephine (always have to do this) Myelodysplastic Syndrome Smouldering neoplastic proliferation of stem cells of bone marrow, majority terminate after 1-3 years in leukaemia (more aggressive) occurs in younger ppl A pre-leukaemic disorder Usually low peripheral cell count with hypercellular marrow Often in Myeloproliferative cell neoplasms/disorders you have a high peripheral cell count and hypercellular marrow Associated with a variety of chromosomal abnormalities Diagnosis based on clinical haematological and bone trephine May follow previous chemotherapy treatment or may occur de novo Classification of myelodysplasia depends on which cell line shows the dominant abnormality. There are 8 different types These are difficult to diagnose and require cytogenetic studies and correlation between the marrow aspirate and the FBC etc Some will progress into Leukaemia within 2 years