Overview

Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma is a rare type of cancer that begins in the white blood cells and attacks the skin. Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma is one of several types of lymphoma collectively called non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma can cause rash-like skin redness and, sometimes, skin tumors. Treatments can include skin creams, light therapy, medications and radiation therapy.

Several types of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma exist, including mycosis fungoides and Sezary syndrome.

Diagnosis

Dermatologists work with hematologists, pathologists, radiologists and other experts to diagnose cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. Tests and procedures used to confirm a diagnosis include:

• Physical exam. Your doctor will examine your skin for patchy, scaly regions or solid, raised growths. You will also be examined for signs that your lymph nodes or other organs might be affected.
• Blood tests. Your blood may be tested to determine if it contains skin lymphoma cells. Doctors may use advanced laboratory tests to analyze your blood in order to better understand your condition, including flow cytometry and polymerase chain reaction testing.
• Skin biopsies. A pathologist examines a small sample of skin removed during a biopsy to determine whether it contains cancer cells. Sometimes multiple skin biopsies are necessary in order to confirm your diagnosis. Advanced laboratory tests, such as immunohistochemistry and polymerase chain reaction, may be used to help your doctor understand your prognosis and select the most effective treatment.
• Imaging tests. Imaging tests, such as computerized tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET), can help determine if cancer cells have spread to other areas of the body.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com