Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma

Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) is a group of rare blood cancers that affects the largest organ in your body — your skin. CTCLs can look and feel like common skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema or even allergic reactions. Many people have symptoms like skin rash, itchiness or discoloration for years before obtaining a diagnosis.

CTCLs are part of a larger group of cancers called non-Hodgkin lymphoma, which start in certain white blood cells called lymphocytes.

Many people treated for CTCL go into remission, returning to their daily routines without much disruption. Still, a cancer diagnosis can take a toll on your mental and emotional health. Your healthcare team is here to help.

Types of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma

There are many types of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. But the most common are mycosis fungoides and Sézary syndrome:

• Mycosis fungoides: This slow-growing cancer accounts for about half of all CTCL cases. It happens when T cells (T lymphocytes) become cancerous. The cancerous cells usually don’t spread beyond your skin. But a few might find their way to your lymph nodes and bloodstream. When cancerous T-cells circulate in your blood, providers call them Sézary cells.
• Sézary syndrome: With this fast-growing CTCL, you have large numbers of Sézary cells in your skin and your bloodstream. Mycosis fungoides can turn into Sézary syndrome. People with this condition often have widespread skin discoloration.

How common is the condition?

Cutaneous T-cell lymphomas are rare. Healthcare providers estimate mycosis fungoides, the most common form of CTCL, affects 1 in 1 million people in the United States.