Recurrent Leukemia Cutis in Acute Myeloblastic Leukemia

We report the case of a 64-year-old female with acute myeloblastic leukemia (French-American- British classification: M2) who developed two specific cutaneous manifestations during her illness. She presented with extensive cellulitis involving the face, neck, and upper chest wall. While the cellulitis resolved with antibiotic therapy, a fungating ulcerated nodule remained on the lower lip which proved to be leukemic on biopsy. Concomitant blood and bone marrow findings were diagnostic of acute myeloblastic leukemia. The lip lesion cleared with a course of chemotherapy. An erythematous macular rash subsequently developed over the lower trunk which was thought to be an allergic reaction to the penicillin treatment. However biopsy results were consistent with leukemia cutis. A repeat bone marrow examination revealed excessive blasts. Our observations emphasize the various presentations of leukemia cutis and the need to biopsy any cutaneous lesion of unclear etiology in the setting of acute leukemia