Cutaneous
T-cell lymphoma is a disease in which
certain cells of the lymph system (called T-lymphocytes)
become cancerous within the skin. Lymphocytes
are infection and disease-fighting white blood
cells that are made in the bone marrow and by
other organs of the lymph system. Unfortunately,
like all other cells of the body, lymphocytes
can sometimes transform into cancer cells.
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The
lymph system is part of the immune system.
Lymph vessels carry lymph, a colorless, watery
fluid that contains lymphocytes. Clusters
of lymph nodes are found in the underarm,
pelvis, neck, and abdomen. The spleen and
the tonsils are also part of the lymph system. |
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There
are several types of lymphoma. The most common
types of lymphoma are called Hodgkin's disease
and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. These types of
lymphoma usually start in the lymph nodes
and the spleen. |
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Cutaneous
T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) usually develops
slowly over many years. In the early stages,
the skin may be itchy and dry and dark
patches may develop on the skin. In some
cases, tumors may form on the
skin. As more and more of the skin becomes
involved, the skin may become infected.
The disease can spread to lymph nodes or
to other organs in the body, such as the
spleen, lungs, or liver.
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The
most common form of CTCL is called Mycosis
Fungoides. When large numbers of the tumor
cells are found in the blood, the condition
is called Sezary Syndrome. |
Once cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
is confirmed by skin biopsy, more tests will be
done to determine the stage of disease. Stage
is important to plan treatment. Treatments for
CTCL include the following:
1.
Topical corticosteroids, topical retinoids or
topical chemotherapy
2. Phototherapy (usually PUVA)
in combination with topical therapies.
3. Local electron beam or x-ray
therapy.
4. Interferon alfa (biological
therapy) alone or in combination with other therapies.
5. Oral targretin with topical
therapies +/- interferon alfa.
6. Total skin electron beam radiation
therapy.
7. Extracorporeal photopheresis
(combined with other therapies).
8. Systemic chemotherapy in advanced
cases.
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