cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL)

Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) is a rare type of cancer that affects T-cells, a kind of white blood cell involved in immune response, and primarily appears on the skin. It develops when these T-cells grow abnormally and accumulate in the skin, causing symptoms like patches, plaques, or tumors that may be itchy or persistent. CTCL typically progresses slowly and may stay confined to the skin for years, but in advanced stages, it can spread to lymph nodes or internal organs. Treatment options vary depending on the stage and may include topical therapies, light therapy, or systemic medications.