Pediatric pityriasis lichenoides and cutaneous T-cell lymphoma.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purpose of this review is to educate the reader about two cutaneous lymphoproliferative diseases in childhood: pityriasis lichenoides and cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. Pityriasis lichenoides has traditionally been divided into acute and chronic subtypes. The two forms of the disease, however, are best thought of as two ends of a benign lymphoproliferative spectrum. Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma is a rare but underrecognized cutaneous malignancy in children. Early stage disease and hypopigmented presentation are characteristic of pediatric cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. The optimal investigation and treatment plans are still controversial.

RECENT FINDINGS: This article will summarize recent articles on pityriasis lichenoides and pediatric cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, including recent findings from an international registry of pediatric cutaneous T-cell lymphoma.

SUMMARY: After reading this review, the reader should be able to recognize the clinical presentation of pityriasis lichenoides, to understand the overlap between its acute and chronic forms, and to recognize its relationship with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. In addition, the reader will appreciate the challenges in diagnosing and treating pediatric cutaneous T-cell lymphoma.