Aggressive subcutaneous panniculitis-like T-cell lymphoma with hemophagocytosis in two children (subcutaneous panniculitis-like T-cell lymphoma)

Abstract

Subcutaneous panniculitis-like T-cell lymphoma is an uncommon form of cutaneous lymphoma in the pediatric population. It is characterized histologically by subcutaneous infiltration of pleomorphic cytotoxic T cells, mimicking a lobular panniculitis. Although usually described as having an indolent clinical course, the condition may be complicated by systemic involvement and hemophagocytic syndrome, resulting in a poorer prognosis. We present two pediatric patients with aggressive forms of subcutaneous panniculitis-like T-cell lymphoma complicated by hemophagocytic syndrome, and discuss the current literature. © 2009 American Academy of Dermatology, Inc.