Two faces of gamma-delta mycosis fungoides: before and after renal transplantation

BMJ Case Rep. 2017 Feb 22:2017:bcr2016216990. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2016-216990.

Abstract

We describe a patient with a 30-year history of mycosis fungoides (MF) and renal transplantation performed 3 years before he presented with an ulcerated tumour in the lumbosacral area. Biopsy revealed a lymphatic infiltrate of medium-sized, pleomorphic T cells expressing the gamma-delta T-cell receptor. Radiological staging and bone marrow biopsy revealed no extracutaneous involvement. Despite reduction in systemic immunosuppressants, total skin electron beam radiotherapy and systemic chemotherapy, the disease followed a highly aggressive course and the patient died 31 years after initial diagnosis of MF. Pre-existing MF is not listed as a contraindication for solid organ transplantation. With an ever-increasing number of organ recipients, the number of MF patients undergoing solid organ transplantation will be likely to increase. Systematic collection and analysis of such cases is thus warranted to lead to a better understanding to what kind MF gets influenced by solid organ transplantation and ongoing immunosuppression.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Disease Progression
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppression Therapy / adverse effects*
  • Kidney Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Male
  • Mycosis Fungoides / pathology*
  • Mycosis Fungoides / therapy
  • Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell, gamma-delta / analysis
  • Skin Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Skin Neoplasms / therapy
  • T-Lymphocytes / chemistry
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell, gamma-delta