A 55-year-old man presents with a six-month history of progressive, generalized dry, rough skin with large, dark, adherent scales over the extensor aspects of his limbs. He has no personal or family history of similar skin conditions. Physical examination reveals no eczema or atopic stigmata. Further evaluation reveals generalized lymphadenopathy. Which malignancy is most likely responsible for this cutaneous finding?
- A Pancreatic adenocarcinoma
- B Hodgkin lymphoma ✓
- C Small cell lung carcinoma
- D Transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder
Correct answer: B. Hodgkin lymphoma
Explanation
Acquired ichthyosis is characterized by the late-onset of dry, fish-like scaling, typically on the extensor surfaces, without a personal or family history of ichthyosis. Unlike congenital ichthyosis, acquired ichthyosis is a well-recognized paraneoplastic phenomenon, most strongly associated with Hodgkin lymphoma. Pancreatic adenocarcinoma, small cell lung carcinoma, and transitional cell carcinoma are not classically linked to acquired ichthyosis.
Reference: Rook's Textbook of Dermatology, 9th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.