Treating Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma
We’re proud of our long history in caring for patients with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) in Central Virginia.
Under the leadership of Ken Blaylock, M.D., who has been working with CTCL patients at VCU for more than 50 years, our team treats patients with this type of skin cancer in a specialized clinic. In collaboration with physicians from the Departments of Radiology and Radiation Oncology, we provide comprehensive treatment plans that are designed to meet the individual needs of each patient and offer the best quality of life and longevity.
About CTCL
Cutaneous lymphomas are cancers of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell found in the immune system, that primarily affect the skin. CTCL is the most common type of skin lymphoma and typically presents with red, scaly patches on the skin. It often causes itching, a symptom that mimics other skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, which can delay diagnosis.
Common subtypes of CTCL include the following:
- Mycosis fungoides: a slow-growing cancer that typically only affects the skin
- Sezary syndrome: an aggressive blood cancer that affects the skin and lymph nodes
Treating CTCL
We work with patients and their families to provide individualized plans for treating CTCL. Treatment methods include:
- Skin-directed therapies for early-stage disease, such as topical creams, local radiation and ultraviolet light
- Systemic treatments such as photopheresis, photodynamic therapy and chemotherapy regimens