Published online Nov 6, 2025. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v13.i31.112023
Revised: July 28, 2025
Accepted: September 12, 2025
Published online: November 6, 2025
Processing time: 106 Days and 20.6 Hours
Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is an aggressive B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma that rarely presents with cutaneous involvement, which typically occurs in advanced disease stages. Primary cutaneous manifestations are particularly uncommon and frequently misdiagnosed. We report a diagnostically challenging case of MCL that first appeared as a nodule on the lower leg.
An elderly female had a painless red nodule on the front of her right lower leg for six months. Positron emission tomography-computed tomography showed a soft tissue mass at the same site and increased activity in the right groin lymph nodes. Skin and lymph node biopsies, along with immunostaining, confirmed MCL. The patient began combination chemotherapy, resulting in a marked improvement of skin lesions and lymphadenopathy after two weeks.
Cutaneous manifestations, though uncommon, may serve as the initial clinical presentation of MCL. Dermatologists and pathologists should maintain heigh
Core Tip: Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is an aggressive subtype of B-cell lymphoma that rarely involves the skin. When cutaneous involvement occurs, it often indicates advanced systemic disease and is associated with a poor prognosis. This case emphasizes the difficulty in differentiating cutaneous MCL from other similar lymphomas, such as diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, leg-type. Accurate diagnosis relies heavily on immunophenotypic markers, particularly cyclin D1 and SOX11. Therefore, a comprehensive approach integrating clinical findings, histopathology, and molecular studies is vital for timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and improved patient outcomes.