Cytomorphology of a case of primary cutaneous B-cell lymphoma

Primary cutaneous lymphoma designates a heterogenous group of disorders arising from skin T and B cells with no evidence of extra cutaneous disease at the time of diagnosis and six months thereafter. We report the cytomorphological features of a case of primary cutaneous lymphoma, B cell type in a 60 year old female presenting with multiple large bosselated red coloured swellings all over the scalp. Clinical examination revealed no other swelling or lymphadenopathy. On cytology a diagnosis of B-cell cutaneous lymphoid hyperplasia (B-CLH) was given, however cutaneous lymphoma could not be ruled out. On biopsy and immuno-histochemistry a diagnosis of primary cutaneous lymphoma B cell type was made. Patient was started on specific chemotherapy of lymphoma to which she responded completely. Here we highlight the cytomorphologic, histopathological and immunohistochemical features of this rare lesion with a particular emphasis on the diagnostic dilemma encountered on cytology.