Role of Retinoids and Their Analogs in the Treatment of Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma: A Systematic Review

Biologically active derivatives of vitamin A, known as retinoids, can be used to treat cutaneous T-cell lymphomas. Retinoids and their analogs can modulate cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis, and alter the immune response. This study systematically evaluated the safety, efficacy, and tolerability of retinoids for the treatment of cutaneous T-cell lymphomas and considered its limitations, dosing-side effects, and technique with the intent to provide valuable insights for clinicians and patients regarding the treatment of cutaneous T-cell lymphomas with the retinoids. The literature search is conducted using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) criteria yielding 16 relevant articles. This study explored the different facets of the role of retinoids in the treatment of cutaneous T-cell lymphomas. In conclusion, the available studies and research have shown that retinoids play an important role in the mild and early stages of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. However, further investigation is required to explain the mechanism of action of retinoids and the impact of their side effects in patients with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma.