b cell lymphoma symptoms | Definition of cutaneous lymphoma

Definition of cutaneous lymphoma


One of the functions of our lymphatic system is to defend the organism against infections and diseases. By definition, lymphoma, is a cancer of the lymphatic system. This disease results in a proliferation of a certain type of white blood cells, the lymphocytes, which accumulate, eventually form a tumor. And as the name implies, cutaneous lymphoma is essentially progressing on the skin.

The majority of cutaneous lymphomas are called "indolent".  This means that they are not aggressive and that they develop slowly, usually over several years. In this they present the characteristics of a chronic disease. On the other hand, cutaneous lymphomas are a rather rare condition. In France, the number of new cases is estimated to be almost 650 each year. 

Cutaneous lymphomas represent very heterogeneous forms of skin conditions. They differ from each other by their clinical characteristics, their appearance, their histology (i.e., their microscopic structure), their management, etc. They are classified into two broad categories: T-cell lymphomas (representing 75 to 80% of cases) and B-cell cutaneous lymphomas (20 to 25% of cases).

The 2 most common types of cutaneous T-lymphoma (LTC) are mycosis fungoides and Sezary syndrome. The Mycosis fungoides affects mainly the skin, in areas of the body that are not generally exposed to the sun. It can evolve into a tumor of the skin. The CTA usually occurs in seniors between 40 and 60 years of age. It seems to affect the man more than the woman. As for Sezary's syndrome, it affects the skin and blood, and sometimes the lymph nodes. It represents an advanced form of mycosis fungoides. This is the most aggressive form of LTC.

B-cell cutaneous lymphoma is less common. It is only 25% of cutaneous lymphomas. In most cases, it remains located on the skin. Doctors usually manage to control it well, with little aggressive treatments. Nevertheless, they are likely to re-offend. A minority of these lymphomas evolve into skin tumors. Sometimes they also reach the lymph nodes.

Interest of a second opinion
Why ask for a second opinion?
A second opinion is very much indicated in the presence of cutaneous lymphoma, since this disease causes a significant impact on the life of the person suffering from it. The impact, both physical, social, intimate (due to some changes in appearance) and emotional (the announcement of cancer) can strongly destabilize the patient. A second opinion allows the patient to learn more about his illness and the treatments currently available. Just as there is a wide variety of cutaneous lymphomas, there are also a large number of therapies that are able to treat them. However, it is not always easy to choose one option rather than another, or to know what is the optimal treatment for each case. Better informed, the patient will be able to assess the benefits and disadvantages that can be expected from each of these treatments, in the light of his personal case. It will thus be better equipped to take part, in an informed way, in the elaboration of a therapeutic strategy adapted to its situation.