Clinical Notes
Could It Be Cutaneous Lymphoma? Red Flags Worth Checking
Most rashes are benign—but persistent, unusual, or treatment‑resistant patterns may need deeper evaluation.
2/21/20261 min read
This article is educational and does not replace an in‑person examination.
Most chronic rashes are not lymphoma
The majority of long‑standing rashes are inflammatory conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or drug reactions.
However, a small group of patients can present with patterns that deserve re‑evaluation.
Red flags that justify reassessment
- A rash that persists for months despite appropriate treatment
- Unusual distribution or changing morphology
- New plaques or patches that keep appearing
- Persistent itch with minimal response
- Suspicious findings on dermoscopy or examination
What we do in practice
A structured approach may include:
- Full skin examination
- Reviewing previous treatments and response
- Considering biopsy when clinically indicated
Key message
When the pattern doesn’t fit, we don’t keep repeating the same therapy. We reassess, confirm, and then treat with clarity.