The critical role of histology in an era of genomics and proteomics: a commentary and reflection.

The role of histologic examination in lymphoma diagnosis has been called into question by proponents of new technologies, such as genomics and proteomics. We review the history and salient features of morphologic evaluation in lymphoid diseases, and discuss the general and specific limitations of mature ancillary techniques, such as immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, and molecular studies. We then speculate on the future relationship between morphology and the new genomic and proteomic technologies as they become integrated into clinical practice.