Erythroderma, an unusual manifestation of B cell lymphoma

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Abstract
A case is described in which the initial manifestation of a malignant lymphoma was an erythematous skin rash over the face, scalp and trunk. Immunological surface marker analysis showed the malignant cells to be of B [bone marrow-derived] lymphocyte origin with a homogenous secretion of IgM-.kappa. [immunoglobulin M-.kappa.]. Repeated skin and lymph node biopsies and postmortem documented the progression of the lymphoma from that of a mixed lymphocytic-histiocytic type with a nodular pattern of growth to a diffuse histiocytic lymphoma with frequently bizarre cells. The theory of ecotaxis or homing of lymphocytes to the skin and other non-lymphoid organs of the body is discussed in an attempt to explain the occurrence of cutaneous involvement as a primary manifestation of lymphoma.