Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma

Overview

Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma usually starts in the T-lymphocytes which are white blood cells helping the immune system to fight infection. Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma is one of many types of lymphoma. It is also known as non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma is a rare type of cancer. The T-cells will become abnormal causing them to attack the skin primarily. This type of lymphoma can cause a red rash, scaly round patch on the skin or tumor. The growth of the disease is usually slow.

The three main subtypes of Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma are the following:

• Mycosis fungoides: This is the common type of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. It only occurs at the skin and progress slowly.
• Sézary syndrome: It occurs both at the skin and in the bloodstream.
• CD30-positive lymphoproliferative disorders: Several of the cutaneous T-cell lymphoma have the potential to expand quickly.

Symptoms

The following are symptoms of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma:

• Round, itchy skin patches that are elevated or scaly in appearance
• A highly irritating, rash-like skin redness all over the body.
• Lumps that develop on the skin
• Skin patches that differ in color with the surrounding skin.
• Lymph node enlargement or swollen
• Skin on the palms and soles thickens.
• Hair loss

Causes

The cause of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma is unknown. Cancer typically starts when cells’ DNA undergoes alterations (mutations). The DNA of a cell carries instructions that direct the cell’s actions. The DNA changes instruct the cells to expand and divide quickly, producing many abnormal cells. 

The mutations in cutaneous T-cell lymphoma lead to an excess of abnormal T cells that attack the skin. The immune system includes T cells, which typically assist your body in battling infections. The reason the cells attack the skin is still unknown to doctors.