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Cytochemistry of lymphoid cells: a review of findings in the normal and leukaemic state

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Conclusions

The cytochemical investigation of lymphoid cells, often regarded as unrewarding, is now proving to be of value in both scientific terms and clinical practice. This new era of cytochemical research, following in the wake of pioneering work with monoclonal antibodies, is beginning to provide information on the enzymatic properties of distinctive lymphocyte subsets. Thus, cytochemical profiles of normal lymphocyte subpopulations are emerging which are providing a basis for understanding previously reported heterogeneous cytochemical reactivities. In lymphoproliferative disorders, cytochemical analyses are providing information on two fronts: (a) as a means of distinguishing differing disease types, thus aiding differential diagnosis, and (b) as a means of investigating the patterns of enzyme expression during lymphocyte development.

The future will undoubtedly see further correlation of enzyme reactivities with immunological markers (particularly monoclonal antibodies) and this, in turn, will give rise to more detailed descriptions of the cytochemical properties of precisely defined lymphocyte subpopulations.

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    A. D. Crockard

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Crockard, A.D. Cytochemistry of lymphoid cells: a review of findings in the normal and leukaemic state. Histochem J 16, 1027–1050 (1984). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01002893

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