Lymphomatoid papulosis (LyP) is a stubborn persistent rash that usually occurs on the chest, stomach, back, arms and legs. The disease is characterized by recurrent crops of pruritic papules at different stages of development that predominantly arise on the trunk and limbs. The papules heal spontaneously over 1-2 months, usually leaving slightly depressed oval scars. Large plaques or nodules may occur but these are rare. Lesions usually heal over 2-3 weeks. The number of lesions can vary from each eruption and can vary in size and severity with each onset. Lesions may be asymptomatic or can be itchy or painful. LyP may develop at any age, but the peak incidence occurs in the fifth decade. Lymphomatoid papulosis is associated with a proliferation of atypical T-cell lymphocytes (funny-looking white cells).
Multiple skin papules (raised bumps) that may occur anywhere on the body but most often affect the chest, stomach, back, arms and legs. The papules appear in crops and may be mildly itchy. In some people lymphomatoid papulosis turns into lymphoma which is a form of cancer. This happens in about one out of ten people. Treatment depends upon the severity of the disease. In mild cases, with few lesions, a topical steroid cream may be used. Steroid creams do not prevent the development of new lesions but may be helpful in reducing the lesion symptoms. Cortisone treatments have been suggested to help heal the condition. PUVA phototherapy, oral retinoids and low doses of methotrexate (MTX) can be effective. Low-dose weekly methotrexate is a safe and effective treatment for LyP.
Lymphomatoid Papulosis Treatment Tips
1. Cortisone ointments will sometimes help.
2. Ultraviolet light treatment will help control lymphomatoid papulosis.
3. Methotrexate is sometimes used to treat lymphomatoid papulosis.
4. Phototherapy also effectively treats and suppresses the disease.
5. Topical chemotherapy (skin drugs) is introduced.
6. Radiation therapy uses special high-energy rays of tiny electron particles to kill the cancer cells.