Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

The incidence and economic burden of cancer in sub-Saharan Africa is increasing, and innovative strategies are needed to improve prevention and care in this population. This article utilizes a case of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) in Uganda to propose guidelines for diagnosis and treatment of this disease in resource-limited settings. These guidelines were developed from the consensus opinion of specialists at the Uganda Cancer Institute and Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center as part of an established collaboration. Areas for future investigation that can improve the care of patients in this region are identified.

A retrospective review of cutaneous lymphoma in Botswana

“…Only a few reports have been published on the occurrence of cutaneous lymphoma in sub‐Saharan Africa, and our study adds a significant number of cases from which additional knowledge can be gained . Given the comorbidities and access issues faced by populations in low‐resource settings, as well as the variability in clinical presentation, the diagnosis and treatment of cutaneous lymphomas can be clinically challenging.…”

“…Only a limited number of case reports and case series have described cutaneous lymphoma in sub‐Saharan Africa, however, there have been no systematic reviews of the clinical and histological findings of cutaneous lymphoma within this population . Several issues, including HIV coinfection, lack of access to specialty providers, and a relatively large dispersed rural population, may contribute to burden and late presentation of disease that can be seen in this setting.…”

“…Several issues, including HIV coinfection, lack of access to specialty providers, and a relatively large dispersed rural population, may contribute to burden and late presentation of disease that can be seen in this setting. The literature available suggests that cutaneous lymphoma is likely under recognized and under diagnosed in sub‐Saharan Africa …”

The clinical spectrum of mycosis fungoides in Tanzania, East Africa

“…We present the cutaneous manifestations, histopathological features and management of MF in a series of five patients attending the RDTC. Only a few reports have been published on the occurrence of MF in Africa . To our knowledge, this is the first case series of MF from East Africa.…”

“…Only a few reports have been published on the occurrence of MF in Africa. [2][3][4] To our knowledge, this is the first case series of MF from East Africa. In our experience MF is relatively frequently seen.…”