Which type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is characterized by large cells?

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma is characterized by the presence of large neoplastic cells. This subtype of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is known for its aggressive behavior and accounts for about 30% of all non-Hodgkin's lymphomas. The large cells are typically larger than normal lymphocytes and are often described as having a pleomorphic appearance.

This lymphoma can arise de novo or as a transformation from a more indolent lymphoma, such as follicular lymphoma. The phenotype of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma usually includes markers such as CD19, CD20, and CD22, and it can present with varied clinical manifestations, including rapid progression.

In contrast, follicular lymphoma consists of small to medium-sized lymphoid cells arranged in follicles, mantle cell lymphoma typically features small to medium-sized cells originating from the mantle zone, and Burkitt lymphoma is characterized by a high mitotic rate and a specific genetic translocation involving the MYC oncogene, but also features a distinct blastoid appearance rather than just large cells. Thus, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma stands out due to its characteristic large cells.