What is cutaneous T-cell lymphoma?
Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, or CTCL, is a rare type of blood cancer that most often affects the skin. It begins in T cells, which are white blood cells that help the body fight infection.
CTCL can cause long-lasting skin changes, such as itchy patches, raised areas, or tumors. Many cases grow slowly, but some types can spread to the lymph nodes, blood, or other organs.
The exact cause of CTCL is not known. It happens when certain T cells become abnormal and grow in an uncontrolled way. Risk may be higher in older adults, men, and people with weakened immune systems.
CTCL is not contagious. You cannot catch it from another person.
Symptoms
CTCL symptoms often begin on the skin and may look like common rashes. Because it can resemble eczema or psoriasis, it is important to have skin changes checked if they do not improve.
Symptoms may include:
- Itchy, dry, or scaly patches
- Raised or thickened areas of skin
- Skin discoloration
- Bumps, tumors, or sores
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Hair loss in affected areas
- Thick skin on the palms or soles
How is it diagnosed?
A provider will start by asking about your symptoms and examining your skin. You may be referred to a dermatologist or cancer specialist for more testing.
A skin biopsy is usually needed to confirm CTCL. During a biopsy, a small sample of skin is removed and checked under a microscope. Sometimes more than one biopsy is needed because CTCL can be hard to diagnose early.
Your care team may also recommend blood tests, imaging scans, or lymph node testing. These tests help show how much of the body is affected and guide treatment.
How is it treated?
Treatment depends on the type of CTCL, how much skin is involved, and whether the cancer has spread. Early-stage CTCL is often treated with therapies focused on the skin.
Treatment may include:
- Medicated creams or ointments
- Topical chemotherapy
- Corticosteroids or retinoids
- Light therapy
- Radiation therapy
If CTCL is more advanced, treatment may need to work throughout the body. Options may include targeted therapy, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, or extracorporeal photopheresis, a treatment that uses light to treat abnormal cells in the blood.
CTCL is often treated over time. Many people need ongoing follow-up to manage symptoms, watch for changes, and adjust treatment when needed.
