Emperipolesis

Lore & Background

Emperipolesis is classified into two categories: engulfment of hematopoietic cells by megakaryocytes, seen in hematolymphoid disorders such as Hodgkin's disease, leukemia, acute and chronic myeloid leukemia, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, myeloproliferative disorders, and myelodysplastic syndrome; and engulfment of inflammatory cells by histiocytes, which is a hallmark of Rosai-Dorfman disease. The process is distinct from phagocytosis because the engulfed cell remains viable and can exit without harming either cell.

Reader's Guide

Emperipolesis is significant as an uncommon biological process that challenges the typical understanding of cell-cell interactions. Its distinction from phagocytosis—where the engulfed cell is killed—highlights a unique form of cellular coexistence. The process is associated with several pathological conditions, including autoimmune hepatitis and various hematolymphoid disorders, and is a hallmark of Rosai-Dorfman disease. It also occurs in leukocyte migration through endothelial cells, akin to diapedesis. Understanding emperipolesis may provide insights into immune regulation and disease mechanisms, though its rarity and the lack of comprehensive data leave many aspects unresolved.

Did You Know?

• Emperipolesis is derived from Greek: en (inside) and peripoleomai (go round).
• Unlike phagocytosis, the engulfed cell in emperipolesis remains viable and can exit without causing abnormalities.
• It is a hallmark of Rosai-Dorfman disease, where inflammatory cells are engulfed by histiocytes.
• Emperipolesis is related to peripolesis, which is the attachment of one cell to another.