The spelling of Sternberg Reed Cells can be a challenge for some due to the specific pronunciation of each word. Sternberg is pronounced as /ˈstɜːrnˌbɜːrɡ/, with an emphasis on the first syllable and a slight r sound at the end. Reed is pronounced as /riːd/, with a long e sound and no emphasis. Finally, Cells is pronounced as /sɛlz/, with a soft c and emphasis on the first syllable. These cells are found in lymphomas and leukemias and are named after their discoverer, Leo Sternberg.
Sternberg Reed cells, also known as Reed-Sternberg cells or Hodgkin's cells, are large abnormal cells that are characteristic of Hodgkin's lymphoma, a type of lymphatic system cancer. These cells are named after the two pathologists who first described them, Carl Sternberg and Dorothy Reed. Sternberg Reed cells are identified under a microscope through their distinct appearance and specific features.
The cells have a binucleated or multinucleated appearance, meaning they possess two or more nuclei within a single cell body. The nuclei within the Reed-Sternberg cells are often large, with prominent nucleoli (small structures within the nucleus). Another significant characteristic of Sternberg Reed cells is the presence of abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm, which stains pink when dyed. This distinguishing feature aids in the differentiation of these cells from normal lymphocytes.
While they are not cancerous cells themselves, Sternberg Reed cells play a crucial role in the diagnosis of Hodgkin's lymphoma. Their presence, along with other associated diagnostic criteria, such as the presence of certain immune cells, helps pathologists confirm the presence of this type of lymphoma. The identification of Sternberg Reed cells in a lymph node biopsy or other lymphatic tissue samples is vital for accurate diagnosis and subsequent treatment planning for individuals with Hodgkin's lymphoma.
In summary, Sternberg Reed cells are large abnormal cells with multiple nuclei and eosinophilic cytoplasm, found in Hodgkin's lymphoma. Their observation and identification under a microscope are crucial for diagnosing this type of blood cancer.