The clinical spectrum of mycosis fungoides in Tanzania, East-Africa

Citation: 
M.L. Grijsen, R.G. Mtayangulwa, B. Naafs, P. Jansen, M.H. Vermeer, D. Mavura, E.J. Masenga, R. Willemze
Publication year: 
2016

Mycosis fungoides (MF) is the most common subtype of primary cutaneous T-cell lymphomas and presents with cutaneous patches, plaques and/or tumours1. To date, few studies have reported on MF in Sub-Saharan Africa. In this case-series we illustrate the clinical spectrum of MF by presenting five patients who presented at the RDTC in Moshi, Tanzania, and were diagnosed based on clinical findings and routine histology performed on multiple skin biopsies. Additional immunohistochemistry was performed at LUMC, the Netherlands. A LUMC-expert panel comprising dermatologists and pathologists revised all histology samples. All patients were HIV-negative, and treated with topical potent steroids and antiparasitic treatment (single dose albendazole 400 mg) prior to the initiation of immunosuppressive therapy.