CTCL

Medical abbreviation · Dermatology

CTCL
Stands forCutaneous T-cell lymphoma
CategoriesMedical

CTCL stands for Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, a dermatology abbreviation.

Group of non-Hodgkin lymphomas that begin in the skin, the most common being mycosis fungoides, which progresses slowly from flat patches to plaques and tumors over years. Sézary syndrome is an aggressive leukemic form with whole-body redness.

Example: CTCL (mycosis fungoides) stage IB, patches on 15 percent BSA; NB-UVB and topical mechlorethamine.

Usage notes

Early mycosis fungoides often mimics eczema or psoriasis for years before biopsy confirms it, and multiple biopsies may be needed. Skin-directed treatments include topical steroids, nitrogen mustard gel and phototherapy; advanced disease uses systemic drugs and extracorporeal photopheresis. Most patients with early disease have a normal life expectancy.

More dermatology abbreviations

  • AGA – Androgenetic alopecia
  • AGEP – Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis
  • AK – Actinic keratosis
  • BCC – Basal cell carcinoma
  • BP – Bullous pemphigoid
  • CSU – Chronic spontaneous urticaria
  • DH – Dermatitis herpetiformis
  • DIF – Direct immunofluorescence
  • DLE – Discoid lupus erythematosus
  • DLQI – Dermatology Life Quality Index
  • DRESS – Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms
  • EASI – Eczema Area and Severity Index

See all 52 dermatology abbreviations →

This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.