From the Research
LEF-1 is a highly specific and sensitive marker for the diagnosis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (CLL/SLL), with a sensitivity of 0.96 and specificity of 0.93, as demonstrated in a study published in 2022 1.
Key Points
- LEF-1 is normally expressed in T cells and pro-B cells but is aberrantly overexpressed in CLL/SLL, making it useful for distinguishing this condition from other small B-cell lymphomas.
- The presence of LEF-1 in lymphoma cells may also have prognostic implications, as it reflects underlying molecular pathways that drive lymphoma development and progression.
- LEF-1 should be used as part of a comprehensive immunohistochemical panel including other markers such as CD5, CD23, cyclin D1, and CD10 for accurate diagnosis.
- A study published in 2022 found that LEF1 and SOX11 have excellent utility as diagnostic markers, especially for atypical CD5-positive small B-cell lymphomas 1.
Diagnostic Utility
- LEF-1 is a valuable diagnostic marker for CLL/SLL, with high sensitivity and specificity.
- LEF-1 can occasionally be expressed in other lymphomas like T-lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma and some cases of mantle cell lymphoma, though less consistently.
- The expression of SOX11 and LEF1 was not always mutually exclusive, as 2 confirmed mantle cell lymphomas expressed both markers 1.
Clinical Implications
- The use of LEF-1 as a diagnostic marker can help distinguish CLL/SLL from other small B-cell lymphomas, leading to more accurate diagnosis and treatment.
- The presence of LEF-1 in lymphoma cells may also have prognostic implications, as it reflects underlying molecular pathways that drive lymphoma development and progression.
- Further studies are needed to fully understand the clinical implications of LEF-1 expression in lymphoma cells.