The histologic value of adnexal (eccrine gland and follicle) infiltration in mycosis fungoides.

BACKGROUND

To verify the incidence and the possible diagnostic use of detecting adnexotropism in mycosis fungoides (MF).

METHODS

We reviewed the frequency and the intensity of the eccrine and follicular infiltration in 104 biopsy specimens from indisputable cases of MF and in a control group of 20 biopsy specimens of spongiotic dermatitis. Syringohyperplasia and follicular mucinosis were also evaluated.

RESULTS

A prominent eccrine infiltration was noted in 32 of 104 specimens (30%). Marked acrosyringial and ductal eccrine hyperplasia was present in 5 specimens (5%). In 13 of the 32 specimens with prominent eccrine infiltration (40%), epidermotropism was slight or less evident than syringotropism. Follicular structures were visible in 59 specimens and significantly infiltrated in 57%. Follicular mucinosis was found in 5 (8.4%). In the control group of spongiotic dermatitis, a significant eccrine and follicular infiltration was found only in case (5%).

CONCLUSIONS

Adnexal (eccrine gland and follicle) infiltration may be a useful diagnostic tool in MF, particularly in those in which epidermotropism is slight.