What is the role of B-cell lymphoma 6 (BCL6) in classical Hodgkin lymphoma (HL)?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: May 8, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

From the Research

BCL6 is typically not expressed in classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL), which is characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells that usually express CD30 and CD15 but lack BCL6 expression. This absence of BCL6 is an important diagnostic feature that helps distinguish classical Hodgkin lymphoma from other B-cell lymphomas, particularly nodular lymphocyte predominant Hodgkin lymphoma (NLPHL) and certain types of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) 1. The Reed-Sternberg cells in cHL typically show downregulation of B-cell markers and transcription factors, including BCL6, while maintaining expression of PAX5.

Key Features of Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma

  • Characterized by Reed-Sternberg cells
  • Typically express CD30 and CD15
  • Lack BCL6 expression
  • Unique immunophenotypic profile reflects distinct pathogenesis
  • Involves dysregulation of multiple signaling pathways, including NF-κB, JAK-STAT, and PI3K-AKT

The provided evidence does not directly address the expression of BCL6 in classical Hodgkin lymphoma, but it discusses the treatment and prognosis of the disease 2, 3, 4. However, the study by 5 examines the use of BCL6 and CD57 in the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of lymphocyte predominance Hodgkin's disease, which can help distinguish it from classical Hodgkin lymphoma.

Treatment and Prognosis of Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma

  • Frontline therapy includes ABVD protocol or BEACOPP protocol
  • Positron emission tomography (PET) is used to evaluate early response and adapt treatment intensity
  • New therapeutic agents, such as brentuximab vedotin and PD-1 inhibitors, are being investigated for first-line treatment
  • Prognosis is influenced by factors such as age, stage, and expression of certain biomarkers, including BCL2 4

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.