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The smears show abundant number of small and medium size non-cleaved lymphoblasts, but lacking the characteristic lipid droplets, that are usually present in Burkitt's lymphoma cells, giving them a "perforated" aspect. Several mitotic figures were seen, as well as cells with plasmacytoid features, or binucleated. The cytological features are not typical of Burkitt's lymphoma, probably due to chemotherapy effects. A TRAP staining (tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase) was negative, making hairy cell leukemia very unlikely. The cytological examination of CSF fluid is a staging or follow up procedure, not a primary diagnostic test in lymphomas and related conditions.
| Case B November 2003 | Case C November 2003 | References | List of cases | Atlas |