DermNet provides Google Translate, a free machine translation service. Note that this may not provide an exact translation in all languages

Translate

Extranodal NK/T cell lymphoma, nasal type, pathology

Author: Assoc Prof Patrick Emanuel, Dermatopathologist, Auckland, New Zealand, 2013.


toc-icon
Table of contents
arrow-right-small

Introduction

Extranodal NK/T cell lymphoma, nasal type, is an Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-driven disease which typically primarily involves the upper respiratory tract (see Epstein–Barr virus-associated lymphoproliferative disorders). The skin is secondarily involved but a disease based primarily in the skin may also occur.

Histology of extranodal NK/T cell lymphoma, nasal type

In extranodal NK/T cell lymphoma, nasal type, there is a dense dermal infiltrate (figure 1) which often extends into the subcutis. Exocytosis of atypical lymphocytes into the epidermis may be seen and may closely resemble mycosis fungoides (figure 2). The infiltrate in the dermis is usually polymorphous and may include numerous histiocytes and eosinophils. The atypical cells are small to medium sized with some larger forms (figures 3, 4). Commonly, the infiltrate infiltrates the walls of vessels (figures 3, 4) causing vascular nuclear debris (seen focally in figure 4). Necrosis is another common finding.

Extranodal NK/T cell lymphoma, nasal type pathology

Special studies for extranodal NK/T cell lymphoma, nasal type

Special stains are essential for making the diagnosis. In-situ hybridization with EBV shows the atypical cells are positive. The atypical cells are generally positive with immunohistochemistry for CD56 and granzyme or TIA1. Some cases will express the T-cell marker CD3. T-cell gene rearrangement studies are usually negative.

Differential diagnosis of extranodal NK/T cell lymphoma, nasal type

Other peripheral T-cell lymphomas and subcutaneous panniculitis-like T-cell lymphoma can resemble this lymphoma. Positive T-cell gene rearrangement studies and positive T-cell immunohistochemical studies would favour a T-cell lymphoma. EBV, CD56 and granzyme expression are unusual findings in other T-cell lymphomas.

 

 

Related information

Sign up to the newsletter