#00064673

A peripheral blood smear analysis revealed the presence of plasmacytoid lymphocytes in the peripheral blood of a 6-year-old boy diagnosed with chickenpox. Plasmacytoid lymphocytes are immune cells known for their involvement in the immune response against viruses. They produce interferons, which are essential in controlling viral infections. These cells are characterized by their large size, with a prominent nucleus displaying a coarse chromatin pattern, and dark blue cytoplasm. Adjacent to the nucleus, a whitish brightening (pre-nuclear hoff) may be observed. The production of type I interferons by plasmacytoid lymphocytes contributes to their potent antiviral effects and the activation of other immune cells to eliminate infected cells.