Mycosis fungoides plaque: what should you know?

Mycosis fungoides is a type of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, a condition involving immune cells in the skin. A plaque is generally more elevated or thicker than an earlier flat patch. It may be scaly, itchy, discoloured, or feel different from nearby skin. Plaques can occur on areas covered by clothing, including the trunk, hips, or limbs, and their appearance can vary between skin tones.

A similar-looking plaque can result from eczema, psoriasis, fungal infection, or another skin disorder. Diagnosis may involve a skin examination, photographs over time, and one or more skin biopsies. The result is interpreted alongside the distribution and evolution of the lesions.

Arrange a dermatology appointment, especially if a patch has become thicker, more persistent, or increasingly itchy. Bring a list of creams and medicines, and note when the plaque changed. Treatment is selected according to the skin findings and overall assessment. Options may include prescribed topical corticosteroids, narrowband UVB phototherapy, or PUVA therapy. Protecting the skin from harsh fragrances, vigorous rubbing, and excessive dryness can reduce irritation while assessment continues.

Contact your clinician promptly if a plaque grows quickly, becomes painful, develops an open area, bleeds, or produces fluid. Seek urgent medical help for fever with rapidly worsening redness, marked swelling, or feeling acutely unwell. New widespread rash, enlarged lumps in the neck, armpit, or groin, or unexplained night sweating should be reported to the treating team.

Ask whether the area needs a biopsy, how its thickness and distribution affect treatment, how often your skin should be reviewed, and which symptoms should trigger an earlier appointment.