Look from Outside In: A Case of Leukemia Cutis in the Context of Chronic Lymphoid Leukemia

Abstract

Chronic lymphoid leukemia is the most common leukemia in Western countries, appearing at an average age of 70 years. Its etiology is not known, but it is thought that genetic and environmental factors may have an influence.
Male, 68 years old, with a 2-year history of chronic lymphoid leukemia. It started about 6 months ago, with papular lesions on the scalp and face. A biopsy was performed with a histological result compatible with leukemia cutis.
Leukemia cutis is characterized by a neoplastic infiltration on the skin. Its prevalence varies depending on the type of leukemia associated, and it can present in multiple ways and in different locations. Although chronic lymphoid leukemia is the most common leukemia worldwide, leukemia cutis is more frequent in acute myeloid leukemia. Since it is a systemic manifestation of poor prognosis, it is important that we take it into account.