Myelodysplasia Cutis

Arch Pathol Lab Med. 2024 Apr 1;148(4):385-389. doi: 10.5858/arpa.2023-0132-RA.

Abstract

Context.—: Myelodysplasia cutis is an emerging concept in cutaneous neoplasia. Many of these cases were previously included under the umbrella of histiocytoid Sweet syndrome. However, with the advent of next-generation sequencing, cutaneous involvement by myelodysplastic syndrome is being increasingly recognized.

Objective.—: To review histiocytoid Sweet syndrome and myelodysplasia cutis and discuss our current understanding of these entities. Additionally, to discuss how next-generation sequencing can be applied in the evaluation of cutaneous infiltrates of immature histiocytoid cells.

Data sources.—: The English-language literature from 2005 to 2023 on the topic of histiocytoid Sweet syndrome and myelodysplasia cutis was reviewed.

Conclusions.—: Biopsy specimens showing infiltrates of histiocytoid, immature myeloid cells may represent cutaneous involvement by myelodysplastic syndrome. Close clinical correlation is recommended in these cases. Recent studies suggest that next-generation sequencing is useful in separating myelodysplasia cutis from true histiocytoid Sweet syndrome. This distinction has important implications for patients.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Myelodysplastic Syndromes* / diagnosis
  • Myelodysplastic Syndromes* / genetics
  • Myelodysplastic Syndromes* / pathology
  • Skin / pathology
  • Skin Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Sweet Syndrome* / diagnosis
  • Sweet Syndrome* / pathology