A clinicopathological classification of granulomatous disorders

Postgrad Med J. 2000 Aug;76(898):457-65. doi: 10.1136/pmj.76.898.457.

Abstract

Granulomatous disorders comprise a large family sharing the histological denominator of granuloma formation. A granuloma is a focal compact collection of inflammatory cells, mononuclear cells predominating, usually as a result of the persistence of a non-degradable product and of active cell mediated hypersensitivity. There is a complex interplay between invading organism or prolonged antigenaemia, macrophage activity, a Th1 cell response, B cell overactivity and a vast array of biological mediators. Differential diagnosis and management demand a skilful interpretation of clinical findings and pathological evidence. They are classified into infections, vasculitis, immunological aberration, leucocyte oxidase deficiency, hypersensitivity, chemicals, and neoplasia.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • B-Lymphocytes / immunology
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Granuloma / classification*
  • Granuloma / diagnosis
  • Granuloma / etiology
  • Humans
  • Macrophages / immunology
  • Th1 Cells / immunology