What are the characteristic cells found in classic Hodgkin lymphoma?

Reed-Sternberg cells are the hallmark of classic Hodgkin lymphoma. These atypical B lymphocytes are characterized by their large size, abundant cytoplasm, and distinctive binucleate or multinucleate appearance. The presence of Reed-Sternberg cells within an affected lymph node is crucial for the diagnosis of classic Hodgkin lymphoma, as their identification through histological examination is a key diagnostic criterion.

These cells arise from B cells and are indicative of the neoplastic process characteristic of Hodgkin lymphoma, differentiating it from other lymphomas and hematologic disorders. The classic morphology of these cells is essential not only for diagnosis but also often guides treatment decisions, as classic Hodgkin lymphoma typically responds well to chemotherapy and radiation.

The other options pertain to different types of cells that do not play a role in classic Hodgkin lymphoma. Young's cells are not a recognized cell type in this context, plasma cells are associated with multiple myeloma and other conditions but are not characteristic of Hodgkin lymphoma, and basophils are a type of white blood cell involved in allergic responses and are not involved in the pathology of Hodgkin lymphoma. Thus, recognizing Reed-Sternberg cells is fundamental to understanding the pathology of classic Hodgkin lymphoma.