Classic Reed-Sternberg cells in nodular sclerosis Hodgkin lymphoma are derived from which lineage as confirmed by immunophenotyping?
- A T cells
- B Monocytes/macrophages
- C Germinal center B cells ✓
- D Natural killer cells
Correct answer: C. Germinal center B cells
Explanation
Reed-Sternberg cells in classical Hodgkin lymphoma originate from germinal center B cells that have undergone crippling somatic hypermutation, losing normal B-cell antigen expression (CD20 is usually negative), while aberrantly expressing CD15 and CD30. Microdissection and molecular studies confirmed clonal IGH rearrangements indicative of B-cell origin. The malignant cells escape apoptosis despite non-functional BCR signalling through activation of NF-kB pathways.
Reference: Robbins & Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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