Which type of cell is pathognomonic for Hodgkin's lymphoma?

Reed-Sternberg cells are pathognomonic for Hodgkin's lymphoma, meaning their presence is a definitive indicator of this specific type of cancer. These characteristic giant cells are derived from B lymphocytes and exhibit distinct features, such as an abundant cytoplasm, a bilobed nucleus, and large nucleoli, which makes them easily identifiable under a microscope.

Their presence is crucial in the diagnosis of Hodgkin's lymphoma, and a tissue biopsy that demonstrates Reed-Sternberg cells is a key component of the diagnostic criteria. The identification of these cells is not merely suggestive but essential for confirming the diagnosis of Hodgkin's lymphoma, reflecting the unique pathological characteristics of this disease.

In contrast, plasma cells are associated with multiple myeloma, smudge cells are indicative of certain types of leukemia, and Heinz bodies are linked to hemolytic anemia. Each of these body types serves as a marker for different conditions, highlighting the specificity of Reed-Sternberg cells to Hodgkin's lymphoma.