Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma is a rare type of cancer that starts in white blood cells (WBCs). These WBCs are known as T-lymphocytes and fight body infection as a part of the immune system. When these T cells attack the skin due to abnormality they become cutaneous T-cell lymphoma.
In medical terms, cutaneous T-cell lymphoma is a slow-growing rare type of blood cancer that develops over the years. While there is no cure, Dermatologists and Oncologists collaborate closely with other specialists in the comprehensive treatment of this challenging disease.Stage-wise Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma Symptoms | |
Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma Stages | Symptoms |
Stage 1 | Dry, red, scaly patches, plaques on the skin, or skin bumps Sezary (lymphoma) cells in the blood in a small number Normal lymph nodes |
Stage 2 | 80% of the skin is covered by dry, red, scaly patches, plaques, or bumps. Lymph nodes are now enlarged Or At least 1 tumor/1 cm wide lesion on the skin |
Stage 3 | Most of the skin is dry, red, scaly, or bumpy There can be a small number of Sezary cells in the blood |
Stage 4 | There can be many Sezary cells in the blood (there can be none) The lymph nodes are now enlarged and contain the CTCL cancer cells Cancer spreads to other organs (liver or spleen) |