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Published on: December 16, 2013
Lymphoid lost and found
Elizabeth Sagatys1, John F Kirk, Michael B Morgan
1Department of Dermatology, University of South Florida College of Medicine, USA.
Insights
We describe a rare skin cancer, lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma, initially misdiagnosed as lymphocytoma cutis. Histologic features of undifferentiated epithelioid cells with a lymphocytic infiltrate are key diagnostic clues.
Area of Science:
- Dermatopathology
- Oncology
- Histopathology
Background:
- Distinguishing between benign and malignant skin lesions is crucial for accurate patient management.
- Lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma (LELC) of the skin is a rare entity that can be mistaken for other cutaneous conditions.
Observation:
- A case initially diagnosed as lymphocytoma cutis was re-evaluated and found to be lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma of the skin.
- Histologic examination revealed nodular aggregates of undifferentiated epithelioid cells surrounded by a dense, reactive lymphocytic infiltrate.
Findings:
- The characteristic histologic pattern of LELC includes undifferentiated epithelioid cells within a prominent lymphocytic infiltrate.
- Accurate differentiation from lymphocytoma cutis, B-cell lymphoma, and cutaneous lymphadenoma is essential.
Implications:
- Recognition of the specific histopathologic features of LELC is vital for correct diagnosis.
- This distinction impacts treatment strategies and patient prognosis for cutaneous malignancies.
Abstract:
We present the clinicopathologic features of a case initially interpreted as lymphocytoma cutis that was later determined to be lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma of the skin. The histologic presence of nodular aggregates of undifferentiated epithelioid cells surrounded by a dense, reactive lymphocytic infiltrate should prompt consideration of the diagnosis of lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma of the skin. This lesion should be distinguished from lymphocytoma cutis, B-cell lymphoma, and cutaneous lymphadenoma.
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