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[Post-zoster-specific skin infiltrates in chronic lymphatic leukemia]
Summary
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) can manifest as skin lesions mimicking herpes zoster. This case highlights CLL cutaneous infiltration following shingles, emphasizing the need for vigilant diagnosis and treatment of underlying hematologic malignancies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Neurology
Background:
- Herpes zoster (shingles) is caused by reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus.
- Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a type of cancer affecting lymphocytes.
Observation:
- An 80-year-old woman with CLL developed shingles on the right 5th cranial nerve.
- Eight weeks later, she presented with pseudovesicular lesions resembling shingles in the same nerve distribution.
Findings:
- Histological and immunohistological analyses confirmed CLL cell infiltration in the pseudovesicular lesions.
- The cutaneous infiltrates resolved rapidly following intensified chemotherapy for her CLL.
Implications:
- This case demonstrates a rare presentation of CLL cutaneous infiltration mimicking herpes zoster.
- It underscores the importance of considering underlying hematologic malignancies in atypical dermatological presentations.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment of CLL exacerbation are crucial for patient outcomes.