Hypopigmented Mycosis Fungoides in Younger Patients: A Mimicker of Common Hypopigmented Inflammatory Rashes

Abstract

Hypopigmented mycosis fungoides (HMF) is a rare type of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL), a non-classic variant among up to 50 variants of mycosis fungoides (MF), that typically affects younger individuals in the second to fourth decades of life of darker skin types. The presenting cutaneous findings of HMF can be mistaken for and mimic other commonly seen hypopigmented skin disorders and misdiagnosed by an untrained eye in the dermatologic and general practice settings. MF has many different variants, and affects both children and adults. For the purpose of this article, the discussion will be limited to HMF specifically presenting in younger patients. With limited literature on HMF commonly affecting the younger generations, knowledge of how to diagnose and treat this cutaneous malignancy is lacking among clinicians. The goal of this CME article is to provide more awareness to clinicians on this rare form of CTCL, thus improving patient care through early detection and treatment in this patient population.