Recent trends in skin directed and self-administered systemic treatment costs in the United States for Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma

Abstract

To the Editor: Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) is a rare disease requiring chronic treatment. Skin-directed therapies (SDTs) and self-administered systemic therapies (STs) are used to treat CTCL. However, the exponential increase in the cost of medications has reduced access and increased cost burden.1,2 In 2016, cutaneous lymphoma was considered the costliest skin disease per person, averaging annually $3182/person and a total medical cost of $180 million.3 To better understand the costs and cost trends of CTCL medications, an exploratory analysis was conducted evaluating costs over a 15-year interval.