Pustular Mycosis Fungoides Triggered by Systemic Interferon‐γ

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Authors: Mai Nishida, Takatoshi Shimauchi, Yuto Ishikawa, Yasuaki Ogura, Kazuo Kurihara, Reiko Kageyama, Kazumitsu Sugiura, Tetsuya Honda
Cited by: 1
References: 8

Abstract

ABSTRACT Pustular mycosis fungoides (pMF) is a rare variant of MF characterized by the clinical and histopathological formation of pustules. We report a 71‐year‐old Japanese woman with established MF who developed a generalized pustular eruption temporally triggered by systemic interferon (IFN)‐γ administration. Clinically, the patient presented with generalized erythema with coalescing pustules mimicking generalized pustular psoriasis or acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis. Histological examination revealed the simultaneous presence of spongiform pustules of Kogoj and large transformed CD30 + atypical lymphoid cells. The pustules resolved rapidly upon the discontinuation of IFN‐γ and the administration of systemic antibiotics. Cytokine analysis at the onset of pustulosis revealed marked elevations in serum IL‐8, IL‐18, IL‐23, and IL‐6 compared with healthy controls; these levels normalized during remission. This case suggests that systemic IFN‐γ can act as a trigger for pMF. Furthermore, the distinct cytokine profile highlights that the IL‐23/IL‐17/IL‐8 axis may be a crucial mediator in the pathogenesis of pMF.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Cutaneous lymphoproliferative disorders research Psoriasis: Treatment and Pathogenesis Sarcoidosis and Beryllium Toxicity Research

Publication details

Journal / source
The Journal of Dermatology
Publisher
Wiley
Volume
53
Issue
7
Pages
1032–1035
Publication date
20 April 2026
Language
EN