Angiocentric T-cell lymphoma

SUMMARY: The CD20+ variant of angiocentric T-cell lymphoma is an unusual type of T-cell lymphomas that present cystic changes in organs because of ischaemic necroses. The purpose of this study was to describe a case of CD20+angiocentric T-cell lymphoma, discussing its clinical, histopathological and immunohistochemical features, to analyze its proliferation kinetics and to consider its possible relationship to the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) to understand better the pathobiological nature of the disease. METHODS: The clinical, histopathological, immunohistochemical and single-cell DNA cytophotometric features of the case were analyzed. In addition in situ hybridization was performed to detect EBV. RESULTS: The 24 years old woman was admitted to our Institute because of pain in the abdominal region and weight loss. There were enlarged lymph nodes on the neck, and biopsy was done. Histological diagnosis: angiocentric T-cell lymphoma, CD20+ variant. CD3, CD43, CD45RA and CD45R0 antigens were positive in the atypic lymphoid cells of the tumour and in cells infiltrating the vascular wall. DNA index was 0.8589 (hypodiploid). Tumour cells in G1 phase: 47%, S phase: 45.4%, G2 phase: 7.6%. Combined chemotherapy was administered because of clinical stadium IV/B of malignant lymphoma (5 CHOP-Bleo, CEPP, CEP, CMVE treatment). The disease showed gradual progression and the patient died 14 months after the first symptoms had appeared. CONCLUSIONS: In the last 13 years there were 5 cases of angiocentric T-cell lymphoma at our Institute. The CD20+ variant is rare, its clinical symptoms are special, the prognosis is unfavourable. The cause why we demonstrate this case is to call attention to a new treatment for these patients by immunotherapy using monoclonal antibodies against CD20 antigen.