CASE REPORT: Diagnostic Challenge in a 43-Year-Old Female - Acute Monocytic Leukemia (AML-M5) Presenting as Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm

Statement of the Problem Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN) is a rare and aggressive hematologic malignancy that originates from plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs). BPDCN typically presents with skin lesions, which can appear as bruise-like patches, nodules, or plaques. These lesions are often violaceous and can be found on the face, trunk, and extremities. The disease can also involve the bone marrow, blood, lymph nodes, and other organs, including the central nervous system. BPDCN has a poor prognosis, with a median overall survival of less than two years in many cases. The purpose of this study We present a comprehensive case of BPDCN in a 43-year-old female patient. The patient presented with facial swelling, chest papules and nodules. She experienced skin tightness for two months. We performed detailed histopathological examinations including H&E staining. We analyzed bone marrow findings and immunophenotyping results. This case highlights the diagnostic challenges and aggressive nature of BPDCN. Conclusion This case demonstrates that AML-M5 can closely mimic BPDCN clinically and histologically, emphasizing the critical role of comprehensive immunophenotyping in reaching the correct diagnosis.