Lymphomatoid papulosis is a chronic skin condition that mimics T-cell lymphoma. Symptoms include skin lesions that come and go over several years. Biopsy is necessary for accurate diagnosis, and monitoring is recommended as some may develop malignancies. Treatment involves prescribed creams, antibiotics, and more invasive methods if necessary.
Lymphomatoid papulosis, also known as Macaulay disease, is a chronic skin condition that mimics the symptoms of a type of blood cancer known as T-cell lymphoma. The exact cause of lymphomatoid papulosis is not fully understood, although it is thought to genetic defects are a contributing factor. Symptoms include skin lesions that tend to appear and disappear spontaneously. These lesions may itch and bleed, but there are usually no systemic symptoms or abnormal laboratory values when blood tests are done. Any questions or concerns about lymphomatoid papulosis or individualized treatment options should be discussed with a doctor or other medical professional.
Small raised red or brown lesions often appear on the skin as the first symptom. These lesions may itch, bleed, or become irritated easily. The arms, legs, and trunk are the most commonly affected areas of the body, although the face, scalp, and feet may also be affected in some cases. These lesions tend to heal within a few weeks and may leave a small scar. Lymphomatoid papulosis lesions can come and go over a period of several years without a clear pattern of remission and recurrence.
Because lymphomatoid papulosis mimics some of the symptoms of lymphoma, the only way to accurately diagnose the condition is through the use of a biopsy. This is a non-invasive surgical procedure in which a small sample of tissue from the lesion is removed and sent to a laboratory for further testing. At least two lesions are typically biopsied to ensure an accurate diagnosis. Further tests, such as a CT scan, are then done just to make sure there is no evidence of a more serious medical condition.
Although lymphomatoid papulosis is not fatal, a moderate percentage of those who have the disorder will later develop malignancies, usually in the form of lymphoma. Frequent medical monitoring is strongly recommended so that any changes can be diagnosed as early in the disease as possible. Unfortunately, there are no diagnostic tests that can determine who may have an increased risk of developing cancer from lymphomatoid papulosis.
Treatment for this condition usually involves the use of prescribed creams and ointments to help control the lesions. If a skin infection develops, topical or oral antibiotics are usually prescribed. If the condition turns into a malignant tumor, more invasive methods of treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation treatments, may become necessary.
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