Healthcare with Confidence
What Is Skin (Cutaneous) Lymphoma?
Skin lymphoma, also called cutaneous lymphoma, is a rare form of lymphatic system cancer that develops primarily in the skin’s immune cells (lymphocytes).
Unlike other lymphomas, it usually remains localized in the skin for many years and does not spread to internal organs or lymph nodes in the early stages.
In Israel, patients with skin lymphoma are treated by specialized hematologists, dermatologists, and oncologists, who tailor therapy for each specific subtype to achieve the most effective and least invasive results.
Types of Skin Lymphoma
Skin lymphomas are classified based on the type of lymphocytes involved:
- T-cell lymphomas (Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, CTCL)
- B-cell lymphomas (Cutaneous B-cell lymphoma, CBCL)
Both types are non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas, meaning they belong to the broad group of lymphatic cancers not classified as Hodgkin’s disease.
Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma (CTCL)
T-cell lymphomas are the most common form of skin lymphoma. They often progress slowly and are manageable for many years with modern treatments.
1. Mycosis Fungoides
- Also known as granuloma fungoides or Alibera–Bazin syndrome, this is the most common type of skin lymphoma.
- Typically diagnosed around age 60
- More frequent in men than women
- Appears as red patches, plaques, or nodules that may resemble eczema or psoriasis in the early stages
2. Primary Cutaneous Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (ALCL)
- Usually diagnosed between ages 50–60, this type appears as single or multiple skin tumors or nodules.
- Commonly affects arms, legs, or trunk
- Grows slowly and responds well to local therapy or immunotherapy
3. Lymphomatoid Papulosis
- A chronic, recurring condition seen in children, young adults, and men.
- Characterized by red papules or ulcerated lesions on the chest and limbs
- Although it looks malignant under the microscope, it often resolves spontaneously and has a favorable prognosis
4. Subcutaneous Panniculitis-Like T-Cell Lymphoma
- A rare form that develops in the deeper layers of the skin, mainly on the legs or arms.
It can mimic inflammatory skin conditions and requires expert diagnosis and treatment in a specialized hematology center.
5. Primary Cutaneous Peripheral T-Cell Lymphoma
- An uncommon and aggressive subtype that requires intensive systemic therapy and close follow-up.
Cutaneous B-Cell Lymphoma (CBCL)
Cutaneous B-cell lymphomas are less common than T-cell types but are often slow-growing and highly treatable.
1. Primary Cutaneous Marginal Zone B-Cell Lymphoma
- Grows very slowly and usually remains localized
- May be associated with bacterial infections such as Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease)
- Typically responds well to radiotherapy or antibiotic therapy
2. Primary Cutaneous Follicle Center Lymphoma
- Develops on the scalp, forehead, or trunk
- Usually appears as painless reddish nodules
- Grows slowly and responds well to local treatment
3. Primary Cutaneous Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (Leg Type)
- More common in older women
- Usually appears on the lower legs
- Tends to grow faster and may require systemic immunotherapy or chemotherapy
Diagnosis of Skin Lymphoma
Diagnosing cutaneous lymphoma can be challenging because its symptoms often mimic eczema, psoriasis, or chronic dermatitis.
Israeli specialists use advanced diagnostic tools to ensure accuracy and precision:
- Dermatological examination by an experienced oncologist or hematologist
- Skin biopsy with histopathological and immunohistochemical testing
- Blood tests and flow cytometry
- PET-CT or MRI to evaluate possible spread
- Molecular and genetic profiling of lymphoma cells to determine optimal therapy
Treatment of Skin Lymphoma in Israel
Treatment is personalized based on type, stage, and depth of skin involvement.
Main Treatment Options
- Topical Therapy – Corticosteroid or retinoid creams, phototherapy (UV light) for early stages
- Radiation Therapy – Used for localized lesions or small nodules
- Systemic Therapy – Oral or intravenous drugs for widespread disease
- Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy
- Brentuximab vedotin (Adcetris®) and anti-PD1 immunotherapy (Keytruda®, Opdivo®) show strong results in advanced cases.
- Interferon-alpha and bexarotene are also used to regulate immune response
- Chemotherapy – Reserved for aggressive or relapsing types
- Stem Cell (Bone Marrow) Transplantation – Considered for resistant or relapsed lymphoma
All treatments are conducted under the supervision of expert hematologists and dermatologists in leading Israeli medical centers.
Prognosis and Quality of Life
With timely and proper treatment, most skin lymphomas have an excellent prognosis.
Early diagnosis and personalized therapy allow many patients to live full, active lives with long periods of remission.
Continuous follow-up ensures the disease remains under control.
Get a Second Opinion or Treatment Plan
If you have been diagnosed with skin (cutaneous) lymphoma, we can connect you directly with leading Israeli hematologists and oncologists for:
- Online consultation or second opinion
- Comprehensive diagnostic and treatment program
- Full coordination with top Israeli hospitals
