T cells

Hallmark Cells: Definition

Hallmark cells are a distinctive type of abnormal cell seen under the microscope in a cancer called anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL). These cells are a clue that helps pathologists recognize and diagnose this disease. What do hallmark cells look like? Hallmark cells are large and have a very characteristic appearance. Their nuclei, which are …
Read More »

Angioimmunoblastic T-cell Lymphoma: Understanding Your Pathology Report

Angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma (AITL) is a rare and aggressive form of lymphoma that affects the immune system. It develops from T cells, a type of white blood cell that normally helps regulate the immune response. This type of lymphoma typically begins in the lymph nodes but can also affect other parts of the body, including …
Read More »

T Cells: Definition

T cells are a type of white blood cell that play a critical role in the body’s immune system. They are part of the adaptive immune response, which enables them to recognize specific infections and abnormal cells. T cells help protect the body by directly attacking harmful invaders, coordinating other immune cells, and remembering past …
Read More »

What is CD5?

CD5 is a protein normally found on the surface of specific immune cells, particularly certain types of lymphocytes (a kind of white blood cell). CD5 helps these immune cells communicate and interact within the immune system, especially in regulating immune responses and preventing autoimmune reactions. Why do pathologists test for CD5? Pathologists test for CD5 …
Read More »

What is CD3?

CD3 is a protein that is normally made by two types of specialized immune cells, T cells and NK cells. Most lymphomas that start from T and NK cells, including peripheral T cell lymphoma, anaplastic large cell lymphoma, and extranodal NK/T cell lymphoma, also make CD3. Two common tests used to look for CD3 in …
Read More »

A+ A A-