Which type of cell is primarily associated with Hairy cell leukemia?

Hairy cell leukemia is primarily associated with B cells. This rare, chronic form of leukemia arises from abnormal proliferation of B lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell responsible for producing antibodies. In this condition, the B cells appear "hairy," which is a result of cytoplasmic projections that give the cells a distinct appearance under the microscope.

The characteristic features of Hairy cell leukemia include splenomegaly, peripheral blood cytopenias, and the specific morphology of the hairy cells in the bone marrow. The disease is often diagnosed through a combination of peripheral blood smear analysis, bone marrow examination, and flow cytometry, all of which confirm the presence of these atypical B cells.

Understanding this association is critical in the medical field because it helps healthcare professionals recognize the clinical features of the disease and provide appropriate management and treatment for affected individuals.