lymphomalike

Lymphomalike is a descriptive term used in pathology to indicate that a tissue or cell population resembles lymphoma in its appearance or immunophenotype, but has not been established as a malignant lymphoid neoplasm. It functions as a descriptive placeholder in reports when the features raise suspicion for lymphoma but are not yet sufficient for a definitive diagnosis.

Morphology and immunophenotype commonly associated with the term include lymphoid‑type infiltrates that are nodular or diffuse and may comprise small to medium lymphoid cells. In some cases the infiltrate can mimic lymphoma on routine staining, and immunohistochemistry may reveal lymphoid markers such as CD45, CD20, or CD3. However, the presence of lymphoid markers alone does not prove lymphoma, and the pattern may reflect reactive or inflammatory processes or other neoplasms with lymphoid‑like features. Clonality assessment is often required to distinguish reactive from malignant processes.

Diagnostic approach typically involves a combination of histopathology, immunophenotyping by flow cytometry or immunohistochemistry, and molecular studies to evaluate clonality (e.g., rearrangements of immunoglobulin or T‑cell receptor genes). Correlation with clinical information, imaging, and infectious or inflammatory workups is essential. If clonality is absent or inconclusive and there is no systemic involvement, the finding may be labeled as lymphomalike until a final diagnosis is reached.

See also: lymphoma, lymphoid hyperplasia, immunophenotyping.