A spectral-based classification algorithm was used to assign a specific classification color to all pixels on the basis of the unique spectrum of each chromosome. We analyzed 20 G-banded metaphase cells, and 13 of them showed an abnormal karyotype. Six metaphase cells were then subjected to SKY analysis. Discussion Cytochemical analysis results, immunophenotypical features, and the absence of a rearrangement of the TCR and immunoglobulin genes indicated that the tumor cells of our case were derived from NK cells. Aggressive tumors derived from NK cells are roughly classified in accordance with the maturation level of the NK cells.
L often lack azurophilic cytoplasmic granules.
Our case responded to the more intensive chemotherapy used for ALL and has maintained CR for more than 13 months, suggesting the general need for a more intensive therapeutic approach. Another possible reason for the success of chemotherapy in the case presented here may be the lack of cytotoxic activity of the tumor cells. Since no rearrangement of IgH was detected and the surface markers of the tumor cells did not reveal a B-cell phenotype, the IgH gene was not involved in our case.