Fast Five Quiz: Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm Presentation and Diagnosis

Emmanuel C. Besa, MD

Disclosures

February 23, 2021

Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN) is a malignancy derived from plasmacytoid dendritic cells. It is a clinically aggressive hematologic cancer with a proclivity for the skin and leukemic involvement, which is difficult to diagnose. BPDCN is a rare disorder more common in male patients. Although BPDCN occurs more frequently in the elderly, it may occur in patients of any age, including pediatric patients. Previous names included blastic natural killer (NK) lymphoma and CD4+/CD56+ hematodermic neoplasm.

In 2016, the World Health Organization officially classified BPDCN as a unique myeloid neoplasm. The exact incidence of BPDCN is unknown because its nomenclature has evolved over the years as well as the understanding of its biology. The diagnosis of BPDCN can often be difficult due to its rarity and heterogeneity. It can easily be mistaken for a more common hematologic cancer, such as AML or leukemia cutis.

How much do you know about the presentation and diagnosis of blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN)? Test your knowledge with this quick quiz.

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