Mycosis fungoides is a rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that begins in the white blood cells known as T cells. This condition primarily affects the skin, making it the most common form of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL). Because its early symptoms often mimic common skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, mycosis fungoides can go undiagnosed for months or even years. If you or a loved one has recently received this diagnosis—particularly after taking the medication Dupixent—you may have the right to pursue financial compensation.
What Are the Stages and Symptoms of Mycosis Fungoides?
Mycosis fungoides progresses through several stages of skin changes. However, not everyone advances through every phase, and some stages may overlap. For many people, the earliest sign is a scaly rash on areas of the body that are not typically exposed to sunlight.
The stages include:
- Premycotic phase: A scaly rash develops on areas such as the lower abdomen, thighs, buttocks, or chest.
- Patch phase: The skin surrounding the rash thins and may become itchy and dry.
- Plaque phase: Small, firm, raised bumps begin forming on the skin’s surface.
- Tumor phase: Deeper, raised growths develop, usually on the thighs, groin, armpits, or inner elbows.
In the most advanced stages, cancerous T cells—called Sézary cells—circulate in the bloodstream in large numbers. When this occurs, mycosis fungoides may progress into a related condition called Sézary syndrome.
Diagnostic Tests and Treatment Options for Mycosis Fungoides
Diagnosing mycosis fungoides can be difficult because it closely resembles other skin conditions. Your doctor may need to order skin or lymph node biopsies, blood tests to detect abnormal cell markers, and imaging procedures such as CT or PET scans to determine whether the cancer has spread.
Treatment options vary depending on the stage of the condition and may include:
- Topical steroids
- Retinoids
- Phototherapy
- Immunotherapy
- Targeted monoclonal antibody treatments
- Radiation therapy
Traditional chemotherapy is rarely used to treat mycosis fungoides, as it tends to be less effective for this condition and carries a higher risk of side effects.
The Potential Connection Between Dupixent and Mycosis Fungoides
Emerging research has raised concerns about a potential link between the medication Dupixent and the development of mycosis fungoides and other types of CTCL. A study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that asthma patients taking Dupixent had a significantly elevated risk of lymphoma, including a 4.5-fold increased risk of T-cell and natural killer cell lymphomas. A 2024 study in Dermatologic Therapy similarly found that Dupixent users face an increased risk of developing CTCL.
Another study examined 25 patients diagnosed with mycosis fungoides while on Dupixent. On average, these patients had been on the medication for about 13.5 months before their diagnosis. The study found that men, older patients, and those with more advanced disease at the time of diagnosis tended to develop mycosis fungoides sooner after starting Dupixent.
Filing a Dupixent Lawsuit After a Mycosis Fungoides Diagnosis
Former patients who developed mycosis fungoides or other forms of CTCL after taking Dupixent are now pursuing legal claims against the drug’s manufacturer. These lawsuits allege that the company failed to adequately warn patients and healthcare providers about the potential cancer risk associated with the medication.
If you have been diagnosed with mycosis fungoides after using Dupixent, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact an attorney at Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC, at (800) 220-0984 to discuss your eligibility and learn more about your legal options.