A case of leukemia cutis presenting as histiocytoid Sweet's syndrome

Zhang Zhenying1, Liu Xiaoming, Piao Yongjun

  • 1Department of Dermatology, 1st Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.

Insights

Leukemia cutis (LC) can mimic various skin conditions. This case highlights a unique presentation resembling Sweet's syndrome, emphasizing the need for cytologic analysis to differentiate it from histiocytoid Sweet's syndrome.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Hematology
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Leukemia cutis (LC) involves leukemic cell infiltration of the skin.
  • LC can clinically resemble numerous dermatological conditions.
  • Differentiating LC from other skin disorders is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Observation:

  • A unique case of LC presented with clinical features mimicking Sweet's syndrome.
  • Histopathological examination revealed a histiocytoid Sweet's syndrome manifestation.

Findings:

  • This presentation suggests distinct cutaneous and histopathologic presentations of LC.
  • The histiocytoid variant of Sweet's syndrome may be associated with LC.

Implications:

  • Peripheral blood or bone marrow cytologic analysis is crucial for diagnosing LC, especially when histiocytoid Sweet's syndrome is suspected.
  • Further research is warranted to clarify the relationship between LC and histiocytoid Sweet's syndrome.
Abstract

Related Concept Videos

Cytotoxic Edema: Pathophysiology01:21

Cytotoxic Edema: Pathophysiology

Cytotoxic edema is a form of cerebral edema characterized by intracellular swelling of neurons, astrocytes, and other glial cells. It develops when the mechanisms responsible for maintaining ionic gradients across the cell membrane become impaired. Under normal physiological conditions, the sodium–potassium ATPase actively transports sodium ions out of the cell and potassium ions into the cell, preserving osmotic balance and enabling electrical signaling. This pump requires a continuous supply...
Disorders of Leukocytes01:27

Disorders of Leukocytes

Leukocyte disorders can lead to either leukopenia, characterized by an abnormally low leukocyte count, or leukocytosis, marked by a very high leukocyte number.
Leukopenia may result from bone marrow disorders, autoimmune diseases, and infectious diseases. For example, conditions such as multiple myeloma and aplastic anemia can impair the bone marrow's ability to produce adequate leukocytes. Similarly, autoimmune diseases like lupus and viral infections such as HIV can prompt the immune system...
Skin Cancer01:30

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when there is an abnormal growth of skin cells, usually triggered by damage to the DNA within the skin cells. It is primarily caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide, and its incidence continues to rise.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It typically develops in...