What is Lymphomatoid Papulosis?
Lymphomatoid papulosis is a chronic skin condition that can be identified by the characteristic feature of the recurrent appearance of self-healing eruptions and lesions which are non-contagious. A non-contagious disease is a disease or infection, which is not spread through direct or in-direct contact from the diseased person to others. The skin lesions of lymphomatiod papulosis have characteristic features; that typically start or appear as small lesions that gradually become larger tending to bleed and ulceration before forming healing scales and crusts. They are red or brown. Lesions can develop anywhere in the body but its most frequent sites are chest, abdomen, arms, legs, hands, face, and genitalia (male and female sexual organs).
Disease Etiology (cause)
No one has found a well-known cause. Some research studies indicate that it is a slowly progressive T-cell malignancy (cancer of T-cells of the immune system). A T cell protects the body from bacteria, viruses, and other disease-causing agents by directly killing them. Mental, physical, and environmental stress is a risk factor for the development of lymphomatoid papulosis.
Disease Epidemiology
The frequency of occurrence of lymphomatoid papulosis is nearly 1.2-1.9 cases per 1 million populations. Among all the total diagnosed and reported cases male to female ratio is 1.5-2:1. It may occur at any age but it is more common between the ages of 40-50 years. Lymphomatoid papulosis has a good prognosis (the likely course of the disease) with a 5-10 year survival rate of the disease in individuals who have this condition is 92%. However, a reach study revealed its results which indicate that no person was died due to lymphomatiod papulosis when observed for years.
Signs and Symptoms
- Eruptions or skin lesions that are painful and itchy
- Lesions may appear in crops (a large number of skin lesions which appear at the same time at a specific or different site of the body) and may resolve spontaneously within 2-8 weeks.
Diagnosis and Treatment
- Definite test: Skin biopsy for histopathological examination of the lesion is a gold standard test for diagnosing the Lymphomatoid papulosis.
- In 5-20% of individuals who are diagnosed with Lymphomatoid papulosis may also have co-existed lymphoma or may develop lymphoma in the future. So, it is important to diagnose lymphoma like Hodgkin’s lymphoma, PC-ALCL, and other when a person diagnosed with Lymphomatoid papulosis, in this person serological and imaging studies should also be done like complete blood count with peripheral smear, blood coagulation profile, CT-san, MRI, X-ray, and USG.
Treatment options include topical application of corticosteroids, topical retinoid, and methotrexate on skin lesions. These topical medicines help to heal the lesion. Phototherapy, oral retinoid, and Tetracycline are also recommended in some cases.
What support can we give for Lymphomatoid Papulosis?
Lymphomatoid Papulosis is rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. We provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Lymphomatoid Papulosis, we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!
You can help us with your donation:
Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:
Donations – Without a Ribbon is grateful when we receive every donation. Giving to Without a Ribbon helps us to provide ongoing support, organise the annual gathering and subsidise the costs of our Warriors attending these conferences.
Sponsorship – If you wish to sponsor our charity, please contact us using this form.
Volunteering – We are always looking for volunteers to help with different aspects of running our charity. If you are looking for volunteer work, please feel free to contact us.
