Topical chemotherapy of mycosis fungoides.

Mycosis fungoides is a T-cell lymphoma which is often localized to the skin in the early stages. Untreated, the process eventually progresses through eczematous, plaque, and tumor stages to systemic involvement. Its course, however, is unpredictable. Topical chemotherapy is effective in early stages of mycosis fungoides. Possibly prognostic benefits can occur from the early use of these agents. Nitrogen mustard and BCNU, both alkylating agents, have been used topically to control the disease. A dermatitis may develop in persons treated with nitrogen mustard but systemic side-effects are rare. However, BCNU may rarely lead to marrow depression when used topically. The use of these agents in mycosis fungoides is discussed herein.