ABSTRACT

Mycosis fungoides (MF) is a cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL) characterized by clonal proliferation of T helper cells with irregular and hyperchromatic nuclei in epidermis and dermis. Skin targeted therapies and phototherapy are first line treatment options in MF. Bexarotene appear to be best alternative treatment option for treatment refractory patients. The present retrospective study aimed to evaluate efficiency and safety of bexarotene in the treatment of MF.

A total of 6 patients who received bexarotene therapy for MF in our clinic between 2009 and 2012 were enrolled in this study. Clinical and histopathologically features before and after the treatment were evaluated.

One patient with stage IA, four patients with stage IIA and one patient with stage IIB MF were enrolled in the study. Three patients received oral bexarotene, two patients received oral bexarotene plus PUVA and one patient received topical bexarotene therapy. While hyperlipidemia and hypothyroidism were observed in all patients who were treated with oral bexarotene therapy, only one patient was unresponsive to the treatment.

Bexarotene is an effective and safe treatment option in MF. We believe that administration of antihyperlipidemic drugs before oral bexarotene therapy will provide continuing treatment regime at optimal dosage.