Molecular Diagnosis of Classic Hodgkin Lymphoma

Classic Hodgkin's Lymphoma (cHL) is the most common type of Hodgkin lymphoma, characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells, large, abnormal lymphocytes that may contain more than one nucleus. These cells typically originate from germinal center B cells and are rare amidst the extensive and complex inflammatory background. There is an association between Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and classic Hodgkin lymphoma. EBV can be found in the Hodgkin-Reed-Sternberg (HRS) cells of some cHL cases. EBV infection increases the risk of developing cHL. There is a direct connection between EBV infection and cHL in young adults. People with cHL often have high levels of EBV antibodies. Classic Hodgkin lymphoma, which accounts for approximately ۱۰% of all lymphomas, is the most common cancer diagnosed in adolescents ages ۱۵ to ۱۹ years. This lymphoma can be diagnosed through various methods. The diagnosis of cHL traditionally involves a combination of physical examination, blood tests, imaging, and lymph node biopsies. Histopathological examination of these biopsies, specifically the identification of Reed-Sternberg cells, is a cornerstone of diagnosis. However, recent advances in molecular diagnostics have significantly enhanced our ability to precisely distinguish cHL from other lymphomas and identify and characterize cHL subtypes, leading to more accurate staging, risk assessment, and tailored treatment plans, ultimately improving patient outcomes. Molecular diagnostic techniques reviewed for cHL include Immunohistochemistry (IHC), a fundamental technique for diagnosing and classifying Hodgkin lymphoma. By employing antibodies to detect specific molecules or proteins within cells, IHC is a crucial method for identifying HRS cells, the hallmark of Hodgkin lymphoma. Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) is used to detect chromosomal abnormalities, such as the presence of EBV or rearrangements of the c-myc gene, which are associated with specific disease subtypes. Flow Cytometry helps in assessing cell surface markers and immunophenotypes, further characterizing HRS cells. PCR techniques, including reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) and real-time PCR (qPCR), are utilized to detect specific genetic mutations and EBV’s DNA within HRS cells, also by combining with microRNA profiling further aids in diagnosing and differentiating cHL from other lymphomas. Utilizing a combination of diagnostic methods can lead to more reliable and accurate diagnoses. When complementary tests are used together, they can help to reduce the risk of false positives and false negatives.

کلیدواژه ها:

Classic Hodgkin Lymphoma ، Molecular Diagnosis ، biomarker