Cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL) is a type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, which is a group of cancers that affect the lymphatic system. It specifically refers to lymphomas that predominantly involve the skin. CTCL is characterized by the abnormal proliferation of T lymphocytes (white blood cells) in the skin.
The disease usually starts in the skin and may present as different types, including mycosis fungoides and Sézary syndrome. Mycosis fungoides is the most common form of CTCL, with symptoms such as itchy, scaly patches or plaques on the skin that may resemble eczema. Sézary syndrome is a variant of CTCL characterized by the presence of malignant cells in both the skin and blood, leading to generalized redness, scaling, and lymph node enlargement.
CTCL is often a chronic and slow-growing disease, but it can progress to involve other organs, leading to systemic symptoms. The exact cause of CTCL is unknown, and it predominantly affects older adults. The diagnosis of CTCL may involve a variety of tests, including skin biopsies, blood tests, and imaging studies.
Treatment options for CTCL depend on the stage and severity of the disease. It may involve topical or systemic medications, ultraviolet light therapy, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy. In some cases, bone marrow or stem cell transplantation may be considered. Regular follow-up and monitoring are often necessary due to the potential for disease relapse and progression.
