Mycosis fungoides and Sézary syndrome - Simplifying the approach for dermatologists. Part 1: Etiopathogenesis, clinical features and evaluation.

Abstract

Cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (CTCL) are a heterogeneous group of extranodal non-Hodgkin's lymphomas characterised by a cutaneous infiltration of malignant monoclonal T lymphocytes. While this broad spectrum of disease with its varied etiopathogenesis, clinical features and management options are well characterised, an approach from a dermatologist's perspective is lacking in the literature. We strive to elucidate the approach from a clinician's point of view, especially in respect of clinical examination, investigations, staging and management options that are available in the realm of the dermatologists. This review article is the first part out of the two, covering the etiopathogenesis, clinical features and evaluation.