Primary cutaneous lymphomas: a review with current treatment options

Abstract 

Primary cutaneous T- and B-cell lymphomas are a heterogenous group of diseases with varied clinical presentations and prognosis. The use of new molecular, histological, and clinical criteria have enhanced the recognition of primary cutaneous T- and B-cell lymphomas. Compared to their nodal counterpart they have a different clinical behavior and therefore require a different treatment approach. Independent predictive factors identified clinically, histologically, and by immunopheno- and immunogenotyping are essential to assess the appropriate treatment for each subtype. The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Cutaneous Lymphoma Study Group provide a classification of cutaneous lymphomas taking into account of the histological and molecular features. Based on this classification we will provide a summary of the current medical literature in diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis for primary cutaneous lymphomas with emphasis on new treatment strategies.

Keywords:  primary cutaneous lymphoma, clinicopathologic correlations, prognostic indices, treatment