Nasal T cell/natural killer (TNL/NK) lymphoma: Case report and literature review

Linfoma nasal de células T/natural killer (LNT/NK)

Introduction: Nasal T-cell/natural killer (TNL/NK) lymphoma is part of a spectrum of post-thymic T-cell immunoproliferative lesions. It consists of a necrotic process that progressively destroys the nose, paranasal sinuses, palate and other facial structures. Within its etiology, deletion of a chromosomal fragment in the long arm of chromosome 6 has been described, which could have tumor suppressor genes, alterations in the JAK/STAT pathway, and overexpression of NK-κB. Diagnosis requires a skin biopsy for hematoxylin-eosin staining and immunohistochemistry. In addition, EBER (Epstein-Barr virus-encoded small RNAs) identification may be performed. There are different treatment options which will depend on the patient's classification. 

Clinical case: 58-year-old male patient, who presented with the appearance of an erythematous-violaceous plaque, with subsequent ulceration on the nasal dorsum of rapid growth with destruction of adjacent soft tissues, consulted our service where a skin biopsy was considered for basic staining and immunohistochemical studies, with a diagnosis of Extranodal NK-T cell lymphoma nasal type. 

Conclusion: Nasal type NK/T-cell TNL is a rapidly progressive entity that involves significant organ involvement for the patient, so it is of utmost importance to make an early identification of this pathology to improve its prognosis. 

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