Skin Cancer

Home » Skin Cancer » Cutaneous T Cell Lymphoma - Diagnosis

Diagnosis

While a diagnosis of cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL) is often suggested by the appearance of the lesion, it is always confirmed with a skin biopsy (often multiple biopsies) and examination under a microscope. In the early stages of CTCL, the diagnosis may be suspected for years before the condition is finally confirmed after repeated biopsies.

Any enlarged lymph nodes should be evaluated for malignant cells, as should the blood in cases of suspected Sezary syndrome. Extremely atypical cells imply a worse prognosis and the need for more aggressive therapy. A thorough examination should be undertaken to help guide treatment choices. The prognosis worsens as CTCL spreads.

Skin Cancer, Cutaneous T Cell Lymphoma - Diagnosis reprinted with permission from dermatologychannel.net
© 1998-2009 Healthcommunities.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Skin Cancer Resources

	Join Our Skin Cancer Forum Do you have a question, want to share medical advice, or just need to discuss your situation with someone else having a similar experience? The healthchannels forum is a resource for everyone to share and discuss their health and medical needs with others.	Advertising Disclaimer
	Living with...Share your story Do you have a personal health story that you would like to share with others? As a source of free patient education, our goal is to provide our users with trustworthy information and support from others. That's why we've started our "Living with..." sections.
	Our "Living With..." support pages are a place to share experiences about living with a certain condition, disease, disorder, or illness and for loved ones of those dealing with health-related issues. Many people, especially when newly diagnosed, find comfort in knowing that others are having a similar experience. Help others by sharing your story. View stories already submitted.
	Stay Updated Sign up for our newsletter and receive important updates on the medical conditions that are most important to you.
To quickly access health information from your website's browser, download Healthcommunities.com's healthchannels toolbar. Advertising Disclaimer