Treatment of mycosis fungoides: total-skin electron-beam irradiation vs topical mechlorethamine therapy.

Of 42 patients who had mycosis fungoides (MF) confined to the skin with or without dermatopathic lymphadenopathy, 21 were treated with topically applied mechlorethamine hydrochloride and 21 with total-skin electron-beam irradiation. The results of both therapeutic modalities are compared. We conclude that, in the early stage of the disease, both forms of treatment are equally effective. In the later stages of MF, in the absence of lymph node or other systemic involvement, electron-beam irradiation seems to be superior in inducing an initial complete remission. However, because of the large number of patients who have a relapse after this therapy, it should be followed by topical mechlorethamine therapy.