[Cutaneous lymphoma in Tunisia: clinical profile and therapeutic results].

PURPOSE: The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate therapeutic result of cutaneous lymphoma in Tunisia.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

Between January 1969 and June 1994, 100 patients with cutaneous lymphoma were referred either to Salah Azaiz Institute or the other University Hospitals of Tunisia. Fifty-one patients had epidermotropic lymphoma and 49 non-epidermotropic lesions. Eighty-seven patients received complete treatment. Puvatherapy and other local dermatologic treatments were used for early stage mycosis fungoïdes. Thirty-two patients benefited from radiotherapy, with curative dose in 28 cases. Chemotherapy including anthracyclin agents was used for high grade lymphoma. Thirteen patients had association of radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

RESULTS

Five-year survival rates were 50% for patients with epidermotropic lesions and 56% for patients with non-epidermotropic cutaneous lymphoma. Statistical study has not identified any significant prognosis factor.

CONCLUSION

Radiotherapy and chemotherapy are both effective. Treatment should depend on stage and histologic type.