Distinguishing T-cell Large Granular Lymphocytic Leukemia from Reactive Conditions: Laboratory Tools and Challenges in Their Use

Surg Pathol Clin. 2013 Dec;6(4):631-9. doi: 10.1016/j.path.2013.08.009. Epub 2013 Oct 8.

Abstract

This article focuses on the challenges of diagnosing T-cell large granular leukemia and distinguishing it from benign reactive conditions, as well as more aggressive neoplasms of cytotoxic lymphocytes. No single laboratory method is sufficient to make the diagnosis, but instead a combination of flow cytometry, genetic studies, and bone marrow immunohistochemistry must be used.

Keywords: Differential diagnosis; Intrasinusoidal bone marrow infiltrates; KIR flow cytometry; Large granular lymphocytes; Neoplasms of cytotoxic lymphocytes; T-LGL.