Cutaneous lymphoma, or lymphoma of the skin, is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell found in the skin.
What is cutaneous lymphoma?
Cutaneous lymphoma is a rare form of lymphoma, which is a cancer of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is a network of vessels, tissues, and organs that help fight infection, maintain bodily fluid balance, and absorb fats in the body. There are various types of cutaneous lymphoma that can affect the skin and other parts of the body. Your AHN dermatologist and care team have experience in treating the different types of cutaneous lymphoma and are here to help you in your understanding your diagnosis and treatment plan.
Primary cutaneous lymphoma
Primary cutaneous lymphoma (PCL) originates directly in the skin, meaning it doesn't spread from another location in the body. The cancer is further classified as T-cell or B-cell based on the subtype or lymphocyte immune cells involved. It is a relatively rare type of cutaneous lymphoma, and the prognosis depends quite widely on a person’s other health factors.
What is cutaneous T-cell lymphoma?
Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTLC), commonly called mycosis fungoides, is a rare form of cancer affecting the outer layers of the skin. Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma does not come from too much time in the sun, however. The condition occurs when white blood cells (lymphocytes) start growing out of control. Early detection is key in successful treatment of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma.
AHN offers one of few cutaneous T-cell lymphoma programs in western Pennsylvania. This means you are not only going to be seen by experts in the field, but also experts who see you as both a person and a patient who needs treatment tailored to your specific diagnosis.
What is cutaneous B-cell lymphoma?
B-cell lymphoma originates from abnormal B-cells, another type of white blood cell located in the skin that is responsible for antibody production. B-cell lymphoma is less common than other types of lymphomas and treatment plans are tailored to a patient’s specific needs and the lymphoma subtype.
Secondary cutaneous lymphoma
Secondary cutaneous lymphoma happens when lymphoma occurs in another organ first, and then spreads to the skin. It is commonly associated with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma and the symptoms can vary depending, but can generally appear as skin lesions, rashes, or redness.
Skin Cancer Center of Excellence
The AHN Skin Cancer Center of Excellence is at the forefront of delivering state-of-the-art treatment for cutaneous lymphoma. No other skin cancer center in the area has the technology, care, and compassion that AHN provides to its patients.
Why choose AHN for cutaneous lymphoma treatment?
At the AHN Cancer Institute, you’re never alone. We see you and your specific needs. We’re here to listen and deliver treatment that is:
- Personalized: Our skilled team of dermatologists, oncologists, pathologists, and surgeons work together to offer the latest targeted, minimally invasive surgeries or therapies pinpointed to the type of cutaneous lymphoma you have.
- Patient-centric: Our Navigation Team helps coordinate appointments, answers questions about symptoms and treatment options, and provides support if you need to travel. We help lift the burden of travel logistics, so your focus is on treatment and getting better.
- Compassionate: Cancer treatment is a stressful time. Our compassionate team of caregivers is devoted to improving your quality of life, helping you understand treatment options, and keeping you comfortable every step of the way. You have a dedicated care team who is there to help you through. And our robust cancer support services help you live the best quality of life during treatment.
- Collaborative: Your treatment team works together to identify the right treatment for you, whether it’s surgery, chemotherapy, medical oncology, or radiation therapy. Your team is in your corner to determine what will work best for you.
Cutaneous lymphoma symptoms and signs
Having regular skin checks with a dermatologist and getting regular preventive care from your primary care provider are crucial in identifying cutaneous lymphoma symptoms. Symptoms can vary depending on the type and stage of the lymphoma, so it’s important to talk with your doctor about any changes you notice. Common signs include:
- Skin lesions: Patches, plaques, nodules, or tumors on the skin.
- Itching: Often a prominent symptom, especially in the early stages.
- Redness: Affected areas may become red or inflamed.
- Scaling: The skin may become scaly or flaky.
- Swelling: Lymph nodes in the affected area may become swollen.
- Diagnosis: Diagnosis usually involves a skin biopsy, followed by further tests to determine the specific type of lymphoma. The disease is typically very slow growing and evolving. Multiple studies have shown patients typically undergo at least three biopsies over several months, or even years, before a diagnosis is confirmed. This cancer can look very similar to benign rashes such as eczema.