Case for diagnosis. Mycosis fungoides

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Mycosis fungoides is the most common type of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, typically affecting adults.
• Early-stage lesions can be challenging to diagnose, often mimicking benign dermatoses.
• Accurate diagnosis is essential for appropriate patient management and prognosis.

Observation:

• An 18-year-old female presented with a year-long history of a single, well-defined, erythematous, and desquamative plaque on her abdomen.
• No prior medication had been used for the lesion.
• Histopathological examination revealed lymphocytic infiltration with atypia in the superficial dermis, characterized by epidermotropism and mild spongiosis.

Findings:

• Immunophenotyping demonstrated a predominance of CD3-positive cells.
• These findings confirmed the diagnosis of mycosis fungoides.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering mycosis fungoides even in young patients with atypical skin lesions.
• Early histopathological and immunophenotypic evaluation is critical for timely diagnosis and treatment initiation.
• Further research into the early clinical and pathological manifestations of mycosis fungoides in adolescents is warranted.