Immunopathogenesis of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma in skin of color patients part 2: Sézary syndrome

Abstract

Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) serves as an umbrella term for numerous lymphomas that reside in or recirculate through the skin. One such systemic lymphoma is Sézary Syndrome (SS). Although SS is not as common in Skin of Color (SOC), minority patients presenting with the condition do have a different presentation than their White counterparts. In this graphical review, we provide an overview of SS immunopathogenesis and varying presentations. Additionally, a summary of current treatment options is provided, highlighting ongoing clinical trials and opportunities to include SOC patients to promote health equity. SOC patients often have poorer prognosis due to biological differences and health disparities resulting in delayed diagnosis. This exemplifies the potential advantages and promising solutions of precision medicine implementation. To this end, the impact and benefits of precision medicine are summarized.

Keywords

• Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
• Leukemic cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
• Sézary syndrome
• Immunopathogenesis
• Skin of color (SOC)
• Health care disparities