Wright's stain, 400x

This microphotograph illustrates many plasma cells (two of which are identified by red arrows, can you spot at least one other plasma cell in this image?). During lymphoid hyperplasia, the amount of plasma cells will generally increase, such that these will account for 3-5% or more of cells seen in a lymph node aspirate. It is also important to note that in lymphoid hyperplasia, the lymphoid population will be predominantly composed of small mature lymphocytes. Intermediate lymphocytes, or lymphoblasts, will increase in proportion, but will usually not exceed 10-15% of the lymphoid cell population during a hyperplasic process. A hyperplasic lymph node can also be referred to as a "reactive" lymph node; the proportion of macrophages may be slightly elevated (>2%). The presence of hyperplasia within a lymph node is an indication of antigenic stimulation of the immune system. If the antigen also stimulates an inflammatory response, lymphadenitis will also be observed.