A Rare Case of CD4 Positive Cytotoxic PTCL, NOS With Leukemic Presentation

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Peripheral T-cell lymphoma, not otherwise specified (PTCL, NOS) is a heterogeneous group of aggressive T-cell neoplasms.
• PTCL, NOS typically involves lymph nodes but can affect extranodal sites.
• Leukemic presentation of PTCL, NOS is exceptionally uncommon.

Observation:

• A case of PTCL, NOS with a unique isolated leukemic presentation is described.
• This presentation is characterized by malignant T-cells predominantly in the peripheral blood.
• No involvement of lymph nodes or other organs was initially observed.

Findings:

• The case highlights the potential for PTCL, NOS to manifest primarily as a leukemia.
• This challenges the typical understanding of PTCL, NOS presentation patterns.
• Detailed diagnostic workup confirmed the diagnosis of PTCL, NOS in leukemic phase.

Implications:

• This case expands the spectrum of clinical presentations for PTCL, NOS.
• It underscores the importance of considering leukemic involvement in T-cell lymphomas.
• Further research may elucidate the biological underpinnings of this rare presentation.