Main Research Findings

Bexarotene topical has shown efficacy in treating mycosis fungoides of the hands in recent Phase II-III clinical trials. 1 A Phase I-II trial involving 67 patients with stage IA-IIA mycosis fungoides demonstrated complete response (CR) in 21% and partial response (PR) in 42% of the patients. 1 The median time to response was approximately 20 weeks. 1 In a phase III trial of refractory stage IA, IB and IIA mycosis fungoides, the patients demonstrated a 44% response rate (8% CR). 1 Patients with no prior therapy for mycosis fungoides responded at a higher rate (75%) than those with prior topical therapies. 1

Reasons for Side Effects

Bexarotene topical is a retinoid that specifically binds retinoid X receptors and has numerous effects on cellular growth and differentiation. 4 It is approved for the treatment of cutaneous T cell lymphoma both topically and systemically. 4 Adverse effects include hyperlipidemia, central hypothyroidism, and neutropenia with bexarotene capsules, and an irritant dermatitis with bexarotene gel. 4 With aggressive management of these potential side effects, bexarotene is an additional option in the armamentarium for management of cutaneous T cell lymphoma. 4

Common Side Effects

Skin Irritation

Bexarotene topical can cause skin irritation. 4 This side effect can manifest as redness, itching, dryness, and pain at the site of application.

Dryness

Bexarotene topical can cause skin dryness. 4 This side effect can manifest as a feeling of dryness and tightness at the site of application.

Rash

Bexarotene topical can cause rash. 4 This side effect can manifest as a red rash at the site of application.

Photosensitivity

Bexarotene topical can cause photosensitivity. 4 This side effect can manifest as redness, itching, and pain at the site of application when exposed to sunlight.

Side Effect Management

Skin Irritation

If you are concerned about skin irritation, apply a moisturizer before applying bexarotene topical. 4 It is also important to avoid rubbing or scratching the area where bexarotene topical was applied.

Dryness

If you are concerned about dryness, apply a moisturizer before applying bexarotene topical. 4 It is also important to avoid rubbing or scratching the area where bexarotene topical was applied.

Rash

If you develop a rash, stop using bexarotene topical and consult your doctor. 4 Your doctor will determine the cause of the rash and prescribe appropriate treatment.

Photosensitivity

To prevent photosensitivity, it is important to protect the area where bexarotene topical was applied from sunlight. 4 Wear a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses when going outside.

Comparison Between Studies

Commonalities Between Studies

Multiple studies have shown that bexarotene topical is effective in treating mycosis fungoides of the hands. 6 , 1 , 5 , 4 These studies have also shown that bexarotene topical is a safe and effective medication with few side effects.

Differences Between Studies

The effectiveness and side effects of bexarotene topical may vary depending on the study. 6 , 1 , 5 , 4 For example, one study showed that bexarotene topical completely eliminated mycosis fungoides lesions, while another study showed that bexarotene topical improved mycosis fungoides lesions but did not completely eliminate them. 1 One study reported that bexarotene topical may cause side effects such as skin irritation, while other studies have shown that bexarotene topical has few side effects. 1 , 4 These differences in research findings may be due to differences in research methodology, participants, and evaluation methods.

Cautions for Real-Life Application

Bexarotene topical is an effective medication for treating mycosis fungoides of the hands, but it is important to remember that it may have side effects. 6 , 1 , 5 , 4 It is important to consult with your doctor before using bexarotene topical to determine the appropriate treatment for you. It is also important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully when using bexarotene topical.

Limitations of Current Research

There is still much that is unknown about bexarotene topical. 6 , 1 , 5 , 4 In particular, there have not been enough studies on the effects of long-term use of bexarotene topical. More research is needed on the long-term effects of using bexarotene topical.

Directions for Future Research

More research is needed to evaluate the effects of long-term use of bexarotene topical. 6 , 1 , 5 , 4 Research is also needed to reduce the side effects of bexarotene topical.

Conclusion

Bexarotene topical is an effective medication for treating mycosis fungoides of the hands. 6 , 1 , 5 , 4 However, it is important to remember that it may have side effects. It is important to consult with your doctor before using bexarotene topical to determine the appropriate treatment for you. It is also important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully when using bexarotene topical. Future research is expected to further clarify the safety and efficacy of bexarotene topical.