Subcutaneous Panniculitis-Like T-Cell Lymphoma: A Rare Tumour

Abstract

Subcutaneous Panniculitis like T cell Lymphoma (SPTCL) is an uncommon variant and poorly differentiated type of cutaneous T cell lymphoma. Here we describe the case of a 19-year-old female who presented with swelling of left half of the face with no regional lymphadenopathy and hepatosplenomegaly which was initially misdiagnosed as a benign cutaneous condition by various practitioners. Histopathological examination revealed diffuse infiltration of subcutaneous plane by small to medium sized atypical lymphocytes. Immunohistochemistry showed CD3, CD8 and βF-1 positivity; CD20, CD56, Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) and TCR-δ negativity. Clinical profile, histopathology and immunohistochemical analysis yielded a diagnosis of SPTCL. Thus cases with atypical and nonresolving dermatological lesions should raise a suspicion of SPTCL as diagnosis against other benign conditions.

Keywords

• atypical lymphocytes
• cutaneous condition
• face
• non resolving