Support for Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma

As cutaneous T-cell lymphoma responds to treatment, doctors at NYU Langone may use maintenance therapy to keep the condition under control or in remission, meaning that the signs and symptoms of the lymphoma go away. Maintenance treatments can include a combination of skin-directed or whole-body therapies and may continue for months or years, as long as they are effective. During this time, your doctor monitors your condition by physically examining your skin and checking the results of blood and imaging tests.

Regular follow-up appointments with your doctor range from every month to once or twice a year, depending on your health and the way you are feeling.

During diagnosis, treatment, and beyond, you have access to many support services at NYU Langone’s Perlmutter Cancer Center.

Ongoing Side Effect Management

Our supportive care team provides ongoing treatment of any side effects caused by medication or other therapies for cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. Side effect management may include the prescription of additional medications, the use of integrative therapies—conventional and nonconventional techniques known to be safe and effective—or both.

At NYU Langone, our integrative health services include massage therapy, which can help to reduce stress, and acupuncture, which may relieve chemotherapy-related hot flashes and radiation-related fatigue.

Psychological and Social Support

Support groups and one-on-one counseling sessions with a psycho-oncologist are available to people treated for cutaneous T-cell lymphoma who may be experiencing depression or anxiety related to living with a chronic condition. Social workers are also available to help you address any financial matters that may arise during medical treatment.

Nutrition

Our doctors encourage you to eat healthfully, especially during treatment and maintenance therapy. Registered oncology dietitians at Perlmutter Cancer Center can work with you to provide nutrition counseling.

Managing Weakness and Fatigue

Physical and occupational therapists at NYU Langone’s Rusk Rehabilitation offer a program of strength and aerobic exercise to address any weakness or fatigue caused by cutaneous T-cell lymphoma or its treatment. After an evaluation, our doctors can prescribe a rehabilitation program, with the goal of optimizing your independence at home and in your community.

Neuropathy Treatment

Neuropathy may be a side effect of the chemotherapy used to treat cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. This condition consists of nerve damage accompanied by numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness in the hands, feet, arms, legs, or other parts of the body.

Doctors at Rusk Rehabilitation may prescribe medication to ease any discomfort you’re feeling, and our physical therapists can work with you to prevent the neuropathy from interfering with your balance and strength. They also help you maintain your ability to walk and perform daily activities.