Cutaneous T Cell Lymphoma
Overview
Cutaneous t-cell lymphoma (CTCL) is a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. A rare disorder, it is characterized by excessive growth of white blood cells called T cells within the skin, which manifests as sometimes itchy red patches. Individuals with darker skin might notice lighter or darker patches. Early stages of the condition can be mistaken for other common skin afflictions like psoriasis and eczema, so tests are often needed to distinguish them. Diagnosing CTCL can be tricky, and multiple biopsies may be required over a period of time.
Causes for CTCL are unknown. With so few occurrences – only about four out of every million people – there has not been much available for medical researchers to study. The disease is more common in
Cutaneous t-cell lymphoma (CTCL) is a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. A rare disorder, it is characterized by excessive growth of white blood cells called T cells within the skin, which manifests as sometimes itchy red patches. Individuals with darker skin might notice lighter or darker patches. Early stages of the condition can be mistaken for other common skin afflictions like psoriasis and eczema, so tests are often needed to distinguish them. Diagnosing CTCL can be tricky, and multiple biopsies may be required over a period of time.
Causes for CTCL are unknown. With so few occurrences – only about four out of every million people – there has not been much available for medical researchers to study. The disease is more common in