Hypopigmented mycosis fungoides: case reports and literature review

Abstract

Background: Hypopigmented mycosis fungoides is a rare variant of mycosis fungoides (MF) that usually has a predilection for young individuals with dark complexion.

Objective: The aim is to describe new cases of hypopigmented MF with confirmed T-cell receptor gene rearrangement analysis.

Methods: This article includes case reports and a literature review.

Results: Three out of four hypopigmented MF patients had a positive TCR gene rearrangement. A fifth patient is reported who had hypopigmented mycosis fungoides and classical Pautrier microabscesses, for whom no TCR gene rearrangement analysis was performed.

Conclusion: Although hypopigmented MF has a predilection for dark-complexioned populations, it can also affect Caucasian patients. In challenging cases, polymerase chain reaction can be a useful method for detecting early cases of hypopigmented MF.