Lymphohistiocytic anaplastic large cell lymphoma stage I: Long-term survival after resection alone

A 17-year-old female presented with axillary lymphadenopathy, which, on bio psy, demonstrated an anaplastic large cell lymphoma of the lymphohistiocyti c type (ALCL-LH). The tumor cells expressed the CD30 antigen and reacted wi th the ALK1 antibody, suggesting the presence of the nucleophosminanaplasti c large cell lymphoma kinase (NPM/ALK)fusion protein. No other adenopathy w as found. Following a wide excision of the lymph node and without postopera tive treatment, the patient remains free of disease 5 years later This case demonstrates the potential curability of patients with early stages of ALC L by local treatment.