Small cell variant of ALK-positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma with primary subcutaneous presentation: A case report

RATIONALE: The rare morphological variant of anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) may pose a challenge in diagnosis, especially when presentation primarily involves skin lesions. PATIENT CONCERNS: Here we describe a rare case of small cell variant of ALCL in an 11-year-old girl. DIAGNOSIS: We performed clinical, morphological, and immunohistochemical analyses of developed cutaneous nodules. INTERVENTIONS: Pathologists should consider this small cell variant in ALCL differential diagnosis, as early and correct diagnosis has important clinical implications. OUTCOMES: Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation appears to be a promising treatment option for small cell variant of ALCL. LESSONS: Histological diagnosis of small cell variant of ALCL is challenging among pediatricians because of its low incidence and atypical presentation. We provide a short review of the small cell variant of ALCL to facilitate the diagnosis of this difficult-to-recognize entity.