Cutaneous mantle cell lymphoma presenting as a diffuse morbilliform rash: A case report

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Dermatology
• Pathology

Background:

• Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
• Cutaneous involvement in MCL is typically associated with established disease.
• MCL prognosis is generally poor, necessitating effective treatment strategies.

Observation:

• A patient with known MCL and no prior skin lesions presented with a diffuse morbilliform rash during hospitalization for bacterial pneumonia.
• The rash was initially suspected to be an antibiotic hypersensitivity reaction.
• Clinical improvement was not observed after discontinuation of suspected antibiotic agents.

Findings:

• A skin biopsy was performed to investigate the persistent rash.
• Histopathological examination of the skin biopsy confirmed metastatic cutaneous mantle cell lymphoma.
• This finding indicated unexpected skin infiltration by the lymphoma.

Implications:

• This case highlights that a morbilliform rash can be an initial presentation of cutaneous metastasis in MCL.
• Early recognition and diagnostic biopsy are crucial for accurate diagnosis and timely management.
• Treatment with high-dose corticosteroids and chemotherapy can effectively manage cutaneous manifestations of MCL, leading to symptom resolution.