Leukemia cutis

Leukemia cutis refers to the infiltration of the skin by malignant leukocytes or their precursors, resulting in clinically identifiable cutaneous lesions. It is a specific type of neoplastic infiltration of the skin in patients with leukemia.

Etiology

Leukemia cutis often occurs in patients with systemic leukemia, particularly those with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). However, it can also occur with other types of leukemia, including chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML).

Clinical Presentation

The clinical presentation of leukemia cutis can vary widely. Lesions may appear as papules, nodules, plaques, or ulcers and can be found anywhere on the body. The color of the lesions can range from pink to purple to brown. In some cases, the lesions may be asymptomatic, while in others they may cause itching or pain.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of leukemia cutis is typically made through a combination of clinical examination, histopathology, and immunohistochemistry. A skin biopsy is often performed to confirm the diagnosis. In some cases, additional tests such as flow cytometry may be used to further characterize the leukemic cells.

Treatment

The treatment of leukemia cutis is primarily aimed at treating the underlying leukemia. This typically involves chemotherapy, and in some cases, radiation therapy or stem cell transplantation may be used. Topical treatments, such as corticosteroids, may also be used to manage skin symptoms.

Prognosis

The prognosis of leukemia cutis is generally poor, as it often indicates advanced or aggressive leukemia. However, the prognosis can vary depending on the type of leukemia and the patient's overall health.

See Also

• Leukemia
• Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
• Skin cancer