Differential diagnosis and treatment of primary, cutaneous, anaplastic large cell lymphoma: not always an easy task

Int J Hematol. 2009 Sep;90(2):226-229. doi: 10.1007/s12185-009-0365-7. Epub 2009 Jun 23.

Abstract

Primary cutaneous anaplastic large cell lymphoma (PC-ALCL) is a rare and distinct neoplasm appearing de novo on the skin. We present a case of a 75-year-old man diagnosed with PC-ALCL in his left femoral region. We describe the morphology of lesions along with the differential diagnosis, treatment, clinical course and prognosis. We further discuss parameters concerning treatment that should be considered when a PC-ALCL is diagnosed. Our case report demonstrates the complexity in classification, staging, differential diagnosis and therapy selection of PC-ALCLs. It is crucial to emphasize the importance of clinical criteria in diagnosing a PC-ALCL in combination with immunohistochemistry.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / therapeutic use*
  • Biopsy
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Cyclophosphamide / therapeutic use
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Doxorubicin / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Lymphoma, Primary Cutaneous Anaplastic Large Cell / drug therapy*
  • Lymphoma, Primary Cutaneous Anaplastic Large Cell / pathology*
  • Lymphoma, Primary Cutaneous Anaplastic Large Cell / surgery
  • Male
  • Prednisone / therapeutic use
  • Skin / pathology
  • Skin Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Skin Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Skin Neoplasms / surgery
  • Vincristine / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Vincristine
  • Doxorubicin
  • Cyclophosphamide
  • Prednisone

Supplementary concepts

  • CHOP protocol