Types of Cutaneous Lymphoma

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Cutaneous lymphoma is a group of non‑Hodgkin lymphomas (NHLs) that begin in the skin rather than in lymph nodes or internal organs. These cancers arise from lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) and are broadly divided into cutaneous T‑cell lymphomas (CTCLs) and cutaneous B‑cell lymphomas (CBCLs). Fred Hutch Cancer Center physicians care for patients with all types of cutaneous lymphoma.

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Cutaneous T‑Cell Lymphomas (CTCLs)

Cutaneous T‑cell lymphomas are the most common type of cutaneous lymphoma. They start in T cells (a type of white blood cell) and first show up on the skin. Often, they first appear as patches, plaques or other skin changes. The most common types of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma are mycosis fungoides and Sézary syndrome.

Learn More About CTCLs

Cutaneous B‑Cell Lymphomas (CBCLs)

Cutaneous B‑cell lymphomas start in B-cells and are less common than CTCL. They often appear as one or several firm, raised bumps, nodules or tumors on the skin.

Primary Cutaneous Follicle-Center Lymphoma

This is the most common B-cell lymphoma of the skin. It tends to be found on the scalp, forehead or torso. It is slow growing and is typically found in middle-aged adults.

Primary Cutaneous Marginal-Zone B-Cell Lymphoma

This type of B-cell lymphoma is also slow growing, and is the second most common form of CBCL. It is commonly found on extremities and sun-exposed areas of the skin, such as the arms. Often there are only one to a few lesions. It occurs at any age and is usually curable.

Primary Cutaneous Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (Leg Type)

This type is a rapidly growing lymphoma that begins, as the name implies, mainly on the lower legs. It occurs most often in older people, and is more common in women than men. In this more aggressive type, the lesions may grow into large tumors that extend deep into the body. They may become open sores and spread to lymph nodes and internal organs. This type often requires more intensive treatment.

Primary Cutaneous Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (Other)

These are rare skin lymphomas, including: intravascular large B-cell lymphoma; T-cell rich large B-cell lymphoma; plasmablastic lymphoma; and anaplastic B-cell lymphoma. They develop on sites in the body other than the leg, and can also develop inside blood vessels under the skin. They are typically manifestations of systemic lymphomas. Like the leg type, they tend to require intensive treatment.

Knowing the Type Matters

Understanding the specific type of cutaneous lymphoma you have helps your care team:

  • Choose treatments that are most likely to work for your disease
  • Estimate how quickly the lymphoma may grow or change over time
  • Plan follow‑up visits and monitoring that match your level of risk

Your care team will use your skin exam, biopsy results, blood tests and imaging to determine which type of cutaneous lymphoma you have and to recommend a treatment plan tailored to you.