Cutaneous Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma

A rare form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, cutaneous anaplastic large cell lymphoma develops from T-cell lymphocytes. Classified as an indolent, or slow-growing, lymphoma, it primarily affects the skin but may spread to underlying tissues.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosing cutaneous anaplastic large cell lymphoma is based on a biopsy of the suspected lesion. The pathologist looks for a special marker, called CD30, on the lymphoma cells. A bone marrow biopsy helps determine the stage of the disease and MRIs, CT scans and PET scans determine if the disease has progressed to underlying tissues.

Symptoms

• Often beginning as single or small patch of reddish nodules, cutaneous anaplastic large cell lymphomas can appear on any part of the body. They may ulcerate and itch, causing physicians to misdiagnose them as eczema. In approximately 10 percent of all cases, lymph node enlargement develops near the nodule.

Characteristics

• Cutaneous anaplastic large cell lymphomas commonly present in patients who are 45 to 60 years old, with men affected more often than women. There are no specific risk factors for developing the condition.

Treatment

• Treatment is usually non-aggressive and includes topical steroids, radiotherapy, UVB phototherapy and surgical removal of the tumor. The progression of the disease after initial treatment determines the need for further intervention.

Prognosis

• For patients undergoing surgical removal of the tumor, the 5-year survival rate averages 90 percent, with little or no recurrence.