[What's new about cutaneous T-cell lymphoma?]

Abstract

Introduction: Cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (CTCL) are rare skin-predominant lymphomas, with Mycosis fungoides being the most common subtype. In Europe, the incidence is about 0.3 per 100 000 patient years. The majority of patients are suffering from limited disease with a 5-year survival of 90 %. Clinically, skin lesions can mimic eczema or psoriasis, leading to delayed diagnosis. CTCL diagnosis requires a combination of clinical examination, skin biopsy with histopathological analysis and blood tests to assess systemic involvement. CTCL treatment is stage-dependent. Depending on the stage of the disease, local or systemic therapies can be used. Individually optimised combinations are common. Novel targeted therapies such as brentuximab vedotin and mogamulizumab have expanded the treatment landscape, offering more effective and personalized options. Allogeneic stem cell transplantation is the only curative approach. In CTCL, quality of life is often impaired due to chronic itching, fatigue, and stigmatizing skin lesions. Psychodermatologic care plays a key role in comprehensive patient support.