Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-05-08
Mycosis fungoides is the most common form of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, a rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. While it is internationally recognized by this name, it is occasionally referred to as Alibert-Bazin syndrome or granuloma fungoides in historical medical literature. What are the common synonyms for Mycosis Fungoides? In modern clinical practice, Mycosis fungoides is the standard term used globally.
Mycosis Fungoides synonyms
Other names for Mycosis Fungoides: synonyms, acronyms and related terms used by doctors and patients.
Mycosis fungoides is the most common form of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, a rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. While it is internationally recognized by this name, it is occasionally referred to as Alibert-Bazin syndrome or granuloma fungoides in historical medical literature.
What are the common synonyms for Mycosis Fungoides?
In modern clinical practice, Mycosis fungoides is the standard term used globally. However, patients may encounter several historical or descriptive synonyms in older medical records or international literature:
- Alibert-Bazin syndrome (named after the dermatologists who first described the condition)
- Granuloma fungoides (an outdated term reflecting the mushroom-like appearance of advanced lesions)
- Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL): While technically a broader classification, Mycosis fungoides is the primary subtype of this group.
Why does Mycosis Fungoides have multiple names?
The nomenclature of Mycosis fungoides reflects its complex history. The name was coined by Jean-Louis-Marc Alibert in 1806, who mistakenly believed the skin tumors resembled mushrooms (mycosis). As our understanding of the disease evolved from a "fungal" infection to a malignancy of T-lymphocytes, the name was retained for historical consistency, despite it being a lymphoma rather than a fungal disease. Today, Mycosis fungoides remains the official designation in the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Society for Cutaneous Lymphomas (ISCL) classification systems.
How is the disease classified in official medical databases?
For research and insurance purposes, Mycosis fungoides is categorized under specific international codes to ensure consistency:
- Orphanet: ORPHA:593
- ICD-10: C84.0 (Mycosis fungoides)
- OMIM: 613133
Next steps for patients
- Consult a board-certified dermatologist or oncologist specializing in cutaneous lymphoma.
- Join the 71 members of the Mycosis fungoides community on DiseaseMaps.org to share experiences.
- Request that your physician use the official term Mycosis fungoides on all pathology reports to avoid diagnostic confusion.
Medical disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment; always seek the advice of your physician regarding a medical condition.
