Lymphoepithelial Carcinoma

A relatively rare type of inflammatory squamous cell carcinoma, lymphoepithelial carcinoma arises in the tightly packed epithelial cells of various tissues, including the skin. However, it is more commonly found in the upper part of the throat behind the nose (nasopharynx) and in the salivary glands.

Most frequently diagnosed in adults 50 and older, lymphoepithelial carcinoma affects men and women equally. When the cancer affects the skin, it usually originates in sun-exposed areas of the head and neck.

Lymphoepithelial carcinoma causes and risk factors

Through extensive research, scientists have conclusively linked lymphoepithelial carcinoma of the nasopharynx and salivary glands with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a common viral infection that spreads through saliva and other bodily fluids. More than 90% of EVB-related lymphoepithelial carcinomas originate in the tonsils or at the base of the tongue. However, the role of EBV in the development of primary skin tumors—if any—has not been established. The causes are unknown.

Lymphoepithelial carcinoma signs and symptoms

Many symptoms of lymphoepithelial carcinoma of the skin overlap with those of other skin conditions, both benign and cancerous. Usually, the first sign is a skin bump, lump or nodule, which may have certain characteristics, such as:

• Rapid growth and enlargement
• An evolving appearance, such as changes in size, shape, color or texture
• Ulceration that erodes the surface of the skin and creates an open sore that doesn’t heal
• Pain and tenderness in the affected area

Lymphoepithelial carcinoma diagnosis

To diagnose lymphoepithelioma carcinoma of the skin, a physician will typically perform a clinical investigation of the primary lesion, including an excisional biopsy. This procedure involves removing all or part of the suspicious tissue for microscopic evaluation by a pathologist.

When viewed under a microscope, lymphoepithelioma carcinoma can be identified by its unique appearance, which is characterized by dense infiltration of white blood cells (lymphocytes) in the tumor tissue.

Lymphoepithelial carcinoma treatment

The optimal treatment approach for lymphoepithelioma carcinoma can vary based on several factors, including the stage and extent of the cancer and the patient’s overall health and preferences. Common options include:

• Surgery - The goal of surgical treatment is to completely remove the cancerous tissue while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. Depending on the size and location of the tumor, reconstructive surgery may be performed to restore the appearance and function of the affected area.
• Radiation therapy - High-energy rays may be directed at the cancerous tissue to shrink the tumor before surgery, to destroy residual cancer cells after surgery or as the primary form of treatment.
• Chemotherapy - After being administered intravenously or orally, powerful cancer-fighting drugs enter the bloodstream and circulate throughout the body to reach and destroy widespread cancer cells.
• Targeted therapy - A medication regimen is designed to specifically target the cancer cells based on their molecular characteristics.
• Immunotherapy - Drugs known as immune checkpoint inhibitors can boost the natural abilities of the body’s immune system so it is better able to recognize and attack cancer cells.

Benefit from world-class care at Moffitt Cancer Center

Whether you have a suspicious skin lesion or you have already been diagnosed with lymphoepithelial carcinoma of the skin, you can benefit from individualized care and multiple expert opinions In the Cutaneous Oncology Program at Moffitt. Here, you can work with a multispecialty team of surgeons, oncologists, dermatologists and other medical professionals who will collaboratively determine the most appropriate and potentially effective treatment plan for you.

You can request an appointment with a specialist a Moffitt with or without a referral. Call 1-888-663-3488 or submit a new patient registration form online.