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. As the disease gets
worse, 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 the 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.
6. Total skin electron beam radiation
therapy.
7. Extracorporeal photopheresis
(combined with other therapies).
8. Systemic chemotherapy in advanced
cases.
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