Fibroblastic reticulum cells in human lymph nodes. An ultrastructural study.

Abstract

The ultrastructural characteristics of the fibroblastic reticulum cell (FRC) in human reactive lymph nodes, which were studied electron microscopically, indicate a myofibroblastic cell with unique properties. Its contractile element is probably useful in controlling the volume of the lymph node and possibly in the movement of antigens and antibodies. The FRC may also play a role in other immunologic functions and seems to be preponderant in some lymphomas.