Primary cutaneous anaplastic large-cell lymphoma with metastases in an 81-year-old Filipino female
- Author:
Terese Monette O. Aquino
1
;
Ma. Jasmin J. Jamora
2
;
Karla Angela P. Cuenca-Luchangco
2
;
Julia Erika P. Pangasinan
2
Author Information
- Publication Type:Case Reports
- Keywords: Anaplastic
- MeSH: Lymphoma, T-Cell; Neoplasms
- From: Journal of the Philippine Dermatological Society 2018;27(1):64-67
- CountryPhilippines
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Introduction:Primary Cutaneous Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (PC-ALCL) is a rare Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL)
representing approximately 9% of all cutaneous lymphomas.3
It usually manifests as a slow-growing, solitary tumor
which has a tendency to regress spontaneously. However, metastasis is reported in 5-10% of cases.2
Case Summary:Our case is an 81-year-old female with a four-month history of an enlarging nodule on the left upper back. The initial impression was a malignant cutaneous tumor. Histopathology revealed epidermotropic large atypical lymphocytes and diffuse infiltrates of hyperchromatic, pleomorphic mononuclear cells and lymphocytes. Immunohistochemistry showed CD3+, CD20-, CD30+, epithelial membrane antigen (EMA)- and anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)- consistent with PC-ALCL. Metastatic work-up revealed pulmonary involvement. The patient underwent two cycles of multi-agent chemotherapy with marked improvement. However, patient declined further treatment and expired five months after the diagnosis.
Conclusion:This case emphasizes that although PC-ALCL commonly presents with an indolent course, extracutaneous spread can occur. Prompt treatment with chemotherapy increases survival significantly with a cure rate of 92%.2 - Full text:64-67 Case-report_ALCL_Aquino.pdf
