To detect TCRγ gene rearrangements in skin lesions and peripheral blood of patients with parapsoriasis, and to study their clinical significance.

Totally, 20 patients with parapsoriasis were included in this study. BIOMED-2 multiplex PCR was performed to detect TCRγ gene rearrangements in lesional skin(n = 20)and peripheral blood(n = 11)samples from the patients with parapsoriasis. Statistical analysis was performed to assess the relationship of TCRγ gene rearrangements with clinical types of parapsoriasis as well as general information and histopathological manifestations(including non-specific manifestations and atypical manifestations)of patients.

TCRγ gene rearrangements were positive in lesional skin from 7 of the 20 patients, in peripheral blood from 3 of 11 patients, and in both lesional skin and peripheral blood from 2 patients. Positive TCRγ gene rearrangements in skin lesions were significantly correlated with mycosis fungoides(MF)-related atypical histopatho-logical manifestations(P < 0.05), but those in neither skin lesions nor peripheral blood were correlated with gender and age of patients or clinical course and types of parapsoriasis(all P > 0.05). During an average follow-up time of 44.85 ± 18.48 months, 1 case progressed into MF, and 2 were cured.

Positive TCRγ gene rearrangements in skin lesions of patients with parapsoriasis may be correlated with MF-related atypical manifestations. The presence of TCRγ gene rearrangements and atypical histopathological manifestations may suggest the possibility of progression from parapsoriasis into MF.

Parapsoriasis; Gene rearrangement, gamma-chain T-cell antigen receptor; Mycosis fungoides