Medical Conditions

Cells with extensive dendritic processes found in the B-cell areas (primary follicles and germinal centers) of lymphoid tissue. They are unrelated to the DENDRITIC CELLS associated with T-cells. Follicular dendritic cells have Fc receptors (RECEPTORS, FC) and C3b receptors (RECEPTORS, COMPLEMENT 3B), but unlike other dendritic cells, they do not process or present antigen in a way that allows recognition by T-cells. Instead, they hold antigen in the form of immune complexes on their surfaces for long periods and can present antigen to B-cells during an immune response. (From Herbert et al., Dictionary of Immunology, 4th ed)