perivascular lymphocytic cuffing
Inflammatory infiltrate of lymphocytes surrounding blood vessels in brain parenchyma, indicating neuroinflammation.
Full Definition
A histopathological pattern characterized by collections of lymphocytes arranged around blood vessels, typically venules, within the brain parenchyma or meninges. This finding is characteristic of viral encephalitis, autoimmune conditions, and some neurodegenerative diseases. The lymphocytes form distinct cuffs or sleeves around the vessel walls and may extend into the adjacent neuropil. This pattern must be distinguished from normal perivascular spaces and other forms of inflammatory infiltrates.
Usage
Usage note: Specify cell types when describing cuffing; lymphocytic vs. plasma cell vs. mixed infiltrates have different implications.
In Context
- "Perivascular lymphocytic cuffing was prominent throughout the white matter, suggesting viral encephalitis." — Infectious disease consultation
- "The inflammatory infiltrate showed characteristic perivascular lymphocytic cuffing without neutrophil involvement." — Neuropathology report