Angiocentric cutaneous T-cell lymphoma of childhood (hydroa-like lymphoma): a distinctive type of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma.

BACKGROUND

Angiocentric cutaneous T-cell lymphomas of childhood (ACTCLC) are an unusual type of T-cell lymphomas that present with a vesiculopapular eruption mimicking hydroa vacciniforme. Most patients have been children from Asia and Latin America.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to describe four cases of ACTCLC; to discuss its clinical, histopathologic, and immunohistochemical features; to consider its possible relationship to the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV); and to clarify its classification within the spectrum of angiocentric lymphomas.

METHODS

The clinical, histopathologic, and immunohistochemical features of four cases of ACTCLC were identified and analyzed. In addition in situ hybridization for EBV was performed in all cases.

RESULTS

The clinical features were similar to previous cases reported under different names, such as hydroa-like lymphomas, edematous, scarring vasculitic panniculitis. Histologically, all showed angiocentric infiltrates composed mainly of T cells. In all cases there were variable numbers of CD30+ cells. The EBV was present in three of the cases.

CONCLUSION

ACTCLC is a distinct type of T-cell lymphoma. It affects mainly children, and the EBV appears to play a role in the pathogenesis of this disease.