- Lymphocytes are inflammatory cells derived from the bone marrow.
- Different types exist, B Lymphocytes which secrete antibodies, T helper lymphocytes which secrete cell signalling molecules (cytokines) which regulate inflammation, T cytotoxic lymphocytes which “kill” directly, Natural killer cells (NK) and Gammadelta cells.They are differentiated by the receptors present on the cell surfaces.
- They are normally present as infiltrates in the dermis (they invade the epidermis in some cancers = epidermotropism).
- They are deeply involved in the development of skin diseases, particularly inflammatory ones.
- Skin conditions where involved in Eczema (Dermatitis), Psoriasis and cancers such as lymphomas.