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Mycosis fungoides

Background

Mycosis fungoides, the most common form of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, may present atypically in African skin as hypopigmented patches or plaques rather than the classic erythematous lesions seen in lighter skin. These hypopigmented areas, often misdiagnosed as vitiligo or tinea, typically appear on the trunk or buttocks and may be itchy. Diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion and confirmatory skin biopsy with immunohistochemistry. Treatment includes topical steroids, phototherapy (NB-UVB or PUVA), and systemic therapies in advanced stages.

Lesion

 

 

Lesion image

Mycosis fungoides, the most common form of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, may present atypically in African skin as hypopigmented patches

References
  1. Sarpong S et al. Cutaneous lymphomas in skin of color: diagnostic challenges and treatment considerations. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2021.
  2. Ogunbiyi A. Skin diseases in pigmented skin: clinical features and diagnostic challenges. Int J Dermatol. 2020.

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