Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm presenting as leukemia without cutaneous lesion

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Oncology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN) is a rare hematologic malignancy.
• First described in 1994, BPDCN is recognized in the WHO 2008 classification.
• Previously known by various names including blastic NK cell leukemia.

Discussion:

• BPDCN typically presents with skin lesions, followed by bone marrow and blood involvement.
• Leukemia as the initial presentation without cutaneous lesions is uncommon.
• This presentation can be mistaken for acute undifferentiated leukemia.

Key Insights:

• This report details a rare case of BPDCN presenting initially as leukemia.
• The patient, a 59-year-old male, showed no initial skin lesions.
• A scalp nodule developed later in the disease course.

Outlook:

• Understanding rare presentations of BPDCN is crucial for timely diagnosis.
• Further research into atypical BPDCN manifestations is warranted.
• Improved diagnostic criteria may aid in identifying such cases earlier.