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Petechiae and a Persistent Violaceous Nodule: A Presentation of Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm to
Madison Anzelc1, Christina Druskovich2, Austin Cusick1
1Department of Dermatology, Riverside Methodist OhioHealth Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA.
Abstract:
Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN) is a rare, highly aggressive CD4+ CD56+ hematopoietic malignancy. The cutaneous presentation is variable but often includes violaceous nodules. We present a rare case of BPDCN, which featured dermatological findings consisting of erythematous macules, petechiae, purpura, and a violaceous nodule. A skin biopsy and peripheral blood smear supported a diagnosis of BPDCN. With BPDCN favoring cutaneous involvement, we urge dermatologists to be aware of the possibility of a BPDCN diagnosis in patients who present with purpuric nodules and petechial skin findings, especially when it is not easily explainable by another pathology or medication.
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