lymphoepithelial carcinoma
Undifferentiated nasopharyngeal carcinoma with prominent lymphoid infiltrate. Strongly associated with Epstein-Barr virus and endemic in certain populations.
Full Definition
Lymphoepithelial carcinoma is a poorly differentiated or undifferentiated squamous cell carcinoma characterized by malignant epithelial cells intimately admixed with a prominent reactive lymphoid infiltrate. This tumor type is most commonly found in the nasopharynx, where it represents the predominant histologic subtype in endemic regions such as Southern China and parts of Africa. The tumor shows strong association with Epstein-Barr virus infection and typically presents with cervical lymphadenopathy due to early metastatic spread. Treatment involves radiation therapy with or without chemotherapy, and the prognosis is generally better than other nasopharyngeal carcinoma subtypes.
Usage
Usage note: Specify anatomic site; term sometimes used loosely for EBV-associated carcinomas elsewhere.
In Context
- "Histopathology confirmed lymphoepithelial carcinoma with strong EBV positivity by in situ hybridization." — Pathology report
- "The patient's Chinese ancestry raised suspicion for lymphoepithelial carcinoma given the nasopharyngeal mass." — Clinical note