Lymphoid cells

MyPathologyReport
July 27, 2023

What are lymphoid cells?

Lymphoid cells are immune cells, specifically B cells, T cells, plasma cells, and natural killer (NK) cells. They are part of the body’s immune system and they play an important role in protecting the body from infections.

Where are lymphoid cells normally found?

Lymphoid cells can be found throughout the body with the highest number of lymphoid cells found in the blood, lymph nodes, and bone marrow.

Are lymphoid cells normal?

Yes. Lymphoid cells are a normal part of the body’s immune system, and it is common for pathologists to see lymphoid cells when examining tissue from various parts of the body under a microscope.

What types of cancers start from lymphoid cells?

Lymphoma and leukemia are the main two types of cancers that start from lymphoid cells. Lymphomas tend to form a tumour or a mass within a tissue such as a lymph node while leukemias involve the blood and bone marrow.

What are reactive lymphoid cells?

Lymphoid cells are described as reactive when they are responding to stimulation such as an infection, injury, or stress. Reactive lymphoid cells are important because they help the body heal and their presence is a normal part of the immune response. Reactive lymphoid cells, however, can also be seen in a variety of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis. In these conditions, the lymphoid cells contribute to the disease by injuring nearby cells.