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Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm presenting as violaceous forehead plaque
Georgia Mae Morrison1, Amy Hopkins, Calvin Knapp
1Department of Dermatology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon USA. morrisog@ohsu.edu,kulkarnr@ohsu.edu.
Dermatology Online Journal
|October 19, 2022
Summary
Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN) can mimic other skin conditions. This rare cancer may present as forehead discoloration, highlighting the need for thorough diagnosis when initial treatments fail.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Dermatology
- Oncology
Background:
- Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN) is a rare hematologic malignancy with a predilection for skin involvement.
- Cutaneous manifestations of BPDCN can be diverse and may mimic benign dermatological conditions.
Observation:
- A 72-year-old male with a history of squamous cell carcinoma presented with forehead discoloration, initially diagnosed as actinic damage.
- The patient later developed a large, violaceous forehead plaque unresponsive to topical treatment.
Findings:
- Biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN).
- This case highlights BPDCN as a differential diagnosis for persistent, ecchymotic-appearing skin lesions.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider BPDCN in the differential diagnosis of unusual skin plaques, especially when they do not respond to standard therapies.
- Early recognition and diagnosis of BPDCN are crucial for timely management and improved patient outcomes.
