Which cell type is most commonly associated with lymphoma in animals?

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that originates primarily in lymphocytes, which are a subtype of white blood cells integral to the immune system. These cells play a key role in responding to infections and diseases. In animals, lymphoma can arise in various anatomical locations, including lymph nodes, spleen, and bone marrow, and it directly involves the malignant proliferation of lymphocytes.

Lymphocytes are characterized by their small size and large nucleus, and they can be further classified into different types, such as B cells and T cells. The nodular and diffuse forms of lymphoma reflect abnormalities in these lymphocyte populations. Therefore, when discussing cell types associated with lymphoma in animals, lymphocytes are the predominant cells involved in the disease process.

The other options: neutrophils, blast cells, and monocytes, do not have the same direct association with lymphoma. Neutrophils are typically involved in acute inflammatory responses, while blast cells are often indicative of acute leukemias. Monocytes play a role in chronic inflammation and immune responses but are not specifically tied to lymphoma. Thus, the connection between lymphoma and lymphocytes is both direct and critical to understanding this form of cancer in animals.