Variation in the histological pattern of nodal involvement by gamma/delta T‐cell lymphoma

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Abstract
Aims: Gamma‐delta (γδ) T‐cell non‐Hodgkin's lymphomas (NHLs) usually present with liver, spleen and marrow infiltration. Lymph node involvement by γδ T‐cell NHL has been rarely documented so far; its histological pattern needs to be further defined.Methods and results: Two cases of nodal γδ T‐cell NHL are reported: case 1, a 44‐year‐old man, presented with cytomegalovirus retinitis and superficial lymphadenopathies. Histological analysis of an inguinal lymph node showed complete destruction by a diffuse pleomorphic lymphoid proliferation, which was positive for CD2, CD3, CD43, CD45, TIA‐1 and granzyme B, and displayed a γδ phenotype (δTCR1+, Vδ1+, Vδ2−, Vδ3−, βF1−). Bone marrow was normal. Case 2, a male 24‐year‐old patient with a history of renal transplantation, presented with hepatosplenomegaly and supraclavicular lymph node enlargement. Lymph node architecture was globally preserved. Peripheral sinuses contained scattered nests of medium‐sized irregular lymphoid cells. Bone‐marrow was infiltrated. Phenotype showed positivity for CD2, CD3, CD45 and TIA1 and expression of γδ TCR (δTCR1+, δV1+, δV2−, δV3−, βF1−). Both patients died a short time after diagnosis.Conclusions: These observations suggest that at least two forms of nodal γδ T‐cell NHL may be encountered: one mimicking classical αβ T‐cell NHL, with diffuse pleomorphic cell proliferation, and one displaying sinusoidal neoplastic infiltration suggesting a close relationship with hepatosplenic γδ T‐cell NHL.