Healthcare Provider Experience in Diagnosing and Treating Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Oncology
• Medical Education

Background:

• Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) presents with diverse clinical and histopathologic features.
• CTCL mimics common inflammatory skin conditions like atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, complicating diagnosis.
• Delayed diagnosis of CTCL can significantly increase patient morbidity and mortality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the current practices, knowledge, and educational needs regarding CTCL among US dermatology healthcare providers (HCPs).
• To assess the challenges faced by HCPs in diagnosing and treating CTCL.
• To identify areas for improvement in CTCL education within the dermatology community.

Main Methods:

• An online survey with ten questions was developed and validated by CTCL physician experts.
• The survey targeted 10,600 US dermatology HCPs (MDs, DOs, NPs, PAs), excluding those at centers of excellence.
• A total of 44 eligible HCPs responded to the survey.

Main Results:

• 82% of surveyed HCPs diagnosed 1-10 CTCL cases in the past 5 years.
• Most respondents (91%) consider CTCL in differential diagnoses for non-responsive common conditions.
• Patients often receive ineffective treatments for 1-5 years before a CTCL diagnosis, with 16% treated for ≥5 years.

Conclusions:

• The study highlights significant diagnostic delays for CTCL due to its similarity to other dermatologic conditions.
• A majority of HCPs (two-thirds) recognize the need for enhanced CTCL education.
• Improved education is essential to improve early detection and patient outcomes for CTCL.