Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 8, 2025
Immunoglobulin Gene Sequence Analysis In Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: From Patient Material To Sequence Interpretation
Published on: November 26, 2018
Paraneoplastic Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris Preceding Leukemia
Paul Vance1, Saranya Wyles, Afsaneh Alavi
1Paul Vance, DO, is Resident Physician, Piedmont Healthcare, Macon, Georgia. At the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, Saranya Wyles, MD, PhD, is Resident Physician and Afsaneh Alavi, MD, is Consultant Physician. The authors have disclosed no financial relationships related to this article. Submitted June 15, 2021; accepted in revised form July 30, 2021.
Pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP), a rare skin condition, was diagnosed in a patient with chronic lymphoid leukemia. This case highlights the importance of screening for malignancy in patients with new-onset PRP.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Oncology
- Immunology
Background:
- Pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP) is a rare, chronic papulosquamous disorder characterized by scaling plaques, palmoplantar keratoderma, and follicular papules.
- PRP has been linked to immunodeficiency and malignancies, though the exact relationship remains unclear.
- Current theories suggest a link via tumor-produced peptides or antigen cross-reactivity.
Observation:
- A 49-year-old man presented with a widespread, pruritic rash diagnosed as PRP.
- Physical examination revealed characteristic PRP lesions, including plaques with "islands of sparing" and palmoplantar hyperkeratosis.
- Hematology consultation due to abnormal blood counts led to a diagnosis of chronic lymphoid leukemia.
Findings:
- This is the second reported case of PRP associated with leukemia and the first with chronic lymphoid leukemia.
- A literature review identified 15 previously reported cases of PRP associated with malignancy.
- The study documents a new case of PRP in a patient with chronic lymphoid leukemia.
Implications:
- The association between PRP and malignancy warrants further investigation.
- Screening for cancer is recommended for all patients presenting with new-onset Pityriasis rubra pilaris.
- Understanding the underlying mechanisms connecting PRP and malignancy may improve patient outcomes.
