HIV-related CD8+ cutaneous pseudolymphoma: efficacy of methotrexate

Dermatology. 2013;226(1):15-8. doi: 10.1159/000346242. Epub 2013 Jan 22.

Abstract

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-related CD8+ cutaneous pseudolymphoma (CD8+ cytotoxic T cell skin infiltrative disease) is an inflammatory process resulting from a massive infiltration of the skin by activated, oligoclonal, HIV-specific, cytotoxic T lymphocytes. Usually, CD8+ cutaneous pseudolymphoma affects patients with a deep immunosuppression, and is rare in patients with mild immunosuppression. In deeply immunocompromised patients, highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) is considered as the first-line treatment. In contrast, the choice of therapy in moderately immunocompromised patients and/or patients already receiving HAART remains nonconsensual. We report a case of HIV-related CD8+ cutaneous pseudolymphoma in a moderately immunocompromised patient who was successfully and safely treated with methotrexate. We review the literature on HIV-related CD8+ pseudolymphoma and the use of methotrexate in HIV-positive patients.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antiretroviral Therapy, Highly Active / methods
  • CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes / drug effects*
  • Dermatologic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • HIV Infections / drug therapy*
  • HIV Infections / immunology
  • Humans
  • Immunocompromised Host
  • Male
  • Methotrexate / therapeutic use*
  • Middle Aged
  • Pseudolymphoma / drug therapy*
  • Pseudolymphoma / immunology
  • Skin Diseases / drug therapy*
  • Skin Diseases / immunology
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Dermatologic Agents
  • Methotrexate