Sternberg-Reed-like cells in a pleural effusion secondary to pulmonary emboli with infarction: a cytological observation.

Cells resembling Sternberg-Reed cells were observed in a pleural effusion that was caused by pulmonary embolus with infarction. Although Hodgkin's disease was suggested on the basis of abnormal pleural fluid cytological preparations, the subsequent evaluation and clinical course did not support that diagnosis. We conclude that first, the cytological diagnosis of Hodgkin's disease should only be made when Sternberg-Reed-like cells are seen in association with a compatible clinical and cytological picture, and second, the cytological diagnosis of Hodgkin's disease or other malignancy should be made with caution in cases in which pulmonary infarction is present.