An ALK-Positive Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma with Striking Cutaneous Manifestations and Diagnostic Insights
Journal Title: Journal of Dermatology Research - Year 2025, Vol 6, Issue 1
Abstract
Introduction: Secondary Cutaneous Lymphomas (SCL) result from nodal or extranodal lymphoma dissemination and are characterized by skin infiltration. Diagnosing SCL is complex and requires clinical, histopathological and molecular evaluations. SCL can present with diverse manifestations, with disseminated lesions indicating a poor prognosis. This report describes a rare case of ALK-positive Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (ALCL) with cutaneous involvement. Case Report: An 18-year-old male presented with an eight-month history of a tumoral lesion with serohematic crusts on the anterior thoracic region and satellite erythematous-violaceous nodules. No systemic B symptoms were reported. Histopathology revealed a diffuse proliferation of large pleomorphic lymphoid cells in the dermis and hypodermis. Immunohistochemistry showed strong positivity for CD30, EMA and ALK, supporting the diagnosis of secondary cutaneous involvement by ALK-positive nodal/systemic ALCL. Bone marrow biopsy confirmed lymphoma infiltration. The patient was referred for surgical and hematological evaluation and initiated chemotherapy protocols. Discussion: SCL accounts for up to 50% of cutaneous lymphomas and presents as nodules, plaques or ulcerations. Disseminated lesions within six months of diagnosis reduce survival rates significantly. Accurate differentiation between primary and secondary lymphoproliferative diseases requires imaging, bone marrow biopsy and molecular techniques. Treatment includes chemotherapy, radiotherapy and emerging therapies such as checkpoint inhibitors, CAR-T cells and targeted agents like brentuximab vedotin. ALK-positive ALCL is generally associated with a more favorable prognosis compared to ALK-negative subtypes. Conclusion: Early diagnosis and intervention are critical for improving survival in SCL patients. Dermatologists play a crucial role in recognizing these lesions and initiating multidisciplinary management.
Authors and Affiliations
Patrícia Imai Zanardi1*, Carolina Ferreira Baldecerra1, Daiane de Souza1, Fernanda Diacópulos Silva1, Silvio Cesar Franco Giovanni Filho2, Cássio Rafael Moreira3
Keywords
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- EP ID EP760089
- DOI https://doi.org/10.46889/JDR.2025.6108
- Views 21
- Downloads 0
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