Introduction: Cutaneous lymphoma is unusual in children but according to data in the literature, approximated 5 p. 100 of the cases observed would begin in childhood.
Case report: We retrospectively studied 3 cases of mycosis fungoides where the first manifestations occurred before 10 years of age. In one of the patients, the diagnosis was not definitively confirmed until adulthood.
Discussion: Diagnosis in these forms which begin in childhood is usually achieved after a long delay. Clinically, these lymphomas form a homogeneous group. In approximately 15 p. 100, guttate parapsoriasis occurs before mycosis fungoides. Biopsy is indicated if the lesions change in aspect or become atypical. The most frequent presentation in children or young adults is vitiligoid hypo-pigmented macules. Histologically, childhood forms do not differ from the adult forms and also respond to local treatment as in adults. Prospective studies conducted conjointly by paediatricians and dermatologists would be needed to describe the natural history of these cutaneous lymphomas in light of progression to aggressive lymphoma of Hodgkin's disease described in certain cases.