Cardiac Involvement in Patients with Mycosis Fungoides: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Background: Primary cutaneous lymphoma (PCL), specifically mycosis fungoides (MF), is a rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma primarily affecting the skin. While MF mostly manifests as skin lesions, it can progress to involve any organ, including the heart. Cardiac involvement in MF is a rare complication associated with poor prognosis, emphasizing the importance of early recognition and intervention. This review aims to explore cardiac involvement in MF and its implications for patient prognosis, providing valuable insights for clinical practice.
Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed and relevant keywords and Mesh terms. Case reports and editorials evaluating cardiac involvement in patients with MF were included in the study. Furthermore, a thorough examination of the references cited in each study was carried out to identify relevant reports. The cases included in the review were analyzed, and common cardiac manifestations and diagnostic approaches were identified.
Results: This review study found multiple instances of cardiac involvement in patients with MF, characterized by symptoms such as heart failure and arrhythmias. Detecting cardiac involvement in MF necessitates a comprehensive approach that combines different imaging methods like echocardiography, cardiac MRI, and CT scans, along with histopathological analysis.
Conclusion: Cardiac involvement in MF is a rare but serious complication that can manifest with various symptoms and cardiac abnormalities. Routine non-invasive imaging techniques play a crucial role in early detection, even in asymptomatic patients. Timely intervention through personalized management approaches, including surgery, when necessary, can contribute to positive cardiovascular outcomes. This review provides valuable insights for clinical practice in managing cardiac complications in MF.