What characteristic cellular appearance is noted in Burkitt Lymphoma?

In Burkitt Lymphoma, the hallmark characteristic is the "starry-sky" appearance observed under microscopic examination. This unique appearance is due to the presence of numerous phagocytic macrophages that have engulfed apoptotic cells and cellular debris, creating a background of non-neoplastic cells interspersed with neoplastic B lymphocytes. These B cells are typically highly proliferative, leading to a dense collection of lymphoid cells that are interspersed with clear spaces, resembling a starry sky.

This appearance is vital for distinguishing Burkitt Lymphoma from other types of lymphoma because it reflects the rapid cell turnover and the high proliferation rate of the tumor, which can quickly lead to necrosis and subsequent phagocytosis by macrophages. Recognizing this characteristic can aid pathologists in making an accurate diagnosis.

Other features, such as pleomorphic cells, monomorphic cells, and diffuse infiltration of lymphocytes, may be observed in various other lymphomas but are not specific to Burkitt Lymphoma. The predominance of a uniform population of cells (monomorphic cells) and signs of cell variation (pleomorphic cells) may indicate different types of lymphoma, while diffuse infiltration is more characteristic of other processes rather than