Immunoperoxidase techniques in the evaluation of cutaneous lymphocytic infiltrates

The widespread availability of immunoperoxidase technology and antibody probes over the past 15 years has changed the discipline of dermatopathology. In no aspect is this more evident than in the microscopic study of cutaneous lymphoid infiltrates. In the following review, the discussion focuses on some of the ways in which immunophenotyping is used to enhance the diagnosis of cutaneous lymphoproliferative disorders. A strategy for the use of immunophenotyping in some common clinical situations is forwarded. The immunopathologic findings can be helpful in resolving problems in the differential diagnosis of lymphoma and mimics of lymphoma.