ABSTRACT
We report a case of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma in which the first sign of disease was involvement of the superior auricular helix. A review of the literature reveals that T-cell lymphoma often presents cutaneously, but it usually does not involve the ear, and an auricular lesion is rarely the first sign. The uncommon nature of this presentation, in addition to the potential need for multiple biopsies for a tissue diagnosis, can lead to a delay in diagnosis. When evaluating skin lesions in the head and neck, a high index of suspicion for cutaneous T-cell lymphoma is a key factor in its early diagnosis.
Subject(s)
Ear Neoplasms/pathology , Ear, External/pathology , Lymphoma, T-Cell, Cutaneous/pathology , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Biopsy , Ear Neoplasms/surgery , Ear, External/surgery , Humans , Lymphoma, T-Cell, Cutaneous/surgery , MaleABSTRACT
Previous reports of consultation rates from family practice physicians have included small sample sizes and have suggested higher rates in residency training programs. This report summarizes 9 years of data involving 161 family practice physicians in a residency training program and shows an overall rate of 1.4 percent for outpatient consultations. Otolaryngology, orthopedics, obstetrics/gynecology, and general surgery were the most frequent disciplines consulted. These data are helpful in designing health care systems that include family practice residency programs.
