In Hodgkin's lymphoma, which cells are characterized by bilobed nuclei and prominent inclusions?

Prepare for USMLE Step 1 Pathology Exam with comprehensive quizzes, flashcards, and detailed explanations. Enhance your understanding and be exam-ready!

In Hodgkin's lymphoma, Reed-Sternberg cells are the hallmark neoplastic cells that exhibit distinctive morphological characteristics. These cells are characterized by their bilobed nuclei, which often resemble the appearance of "owl eyes" due to the presence of prominent inclusions, or nucleoli, within each lobe. The presence of these specific features is critical for the diagnosis of Hodgkin's lymphoma, as Reed-Sternberg cells are not found in other types of lymphomas.

The significance of identifying Reed-Sternberg cells lies in their association with the immune response typically seen in Hodgkin's lymphoma, where they may provoke a prominent inflammatory background consisting of various immune cells. This contrasts with other cell types, such as lymphocytes, giant B cells, and plasma cells, which do not exhibit the distinctive bilobed nuclear morphology or the prominent inclusions characteristic of Reed-Sternberg cells. Therefore, recognizing these unique features is essential for diagnosing Hodgkin's lymphoma correctly.

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