Virtual Patient Conference: Sezary Syndrome

June 2021 - Dr. Jennifer DeSimone provides an overview of Sezary Syndrome. (Click on SHOW MORE for timestamp links to questions)

Clinician:
Jennifer DeSimone, MD, FAAD
Inova Schar Cancer Institute

Timestamps
00:36:21 What do you suggest for nighttime itching?

00:38:30 Can I get the COVID vaccine while on CAR T therapy?

00:39:53 Can I get the shingles vaccine while on CAR T therapy?

00:40:52 What can be done for growths on top of toenails and fingernails?

00:42:10 What other monoclonal antibodies are available for Sezary?

00:42:45 How would you define very active Sezary (in regards to holding off on optional vaccines)

00:43:20 How will I know if I am eligible for a stem cell transplant?

00:44:17 WIll the thickening of my skin go away with treatment?

00:44:49 My skin looks like vitiligo, is this pigmentation common?

00:45:16 Is there anything I can do for several, very deep, painful fissures that are keeping me from sleeping?

00:46:05 Do you work with any alternative health practitioners? Have any studies looked at stress or inflammation as a causal factor?

00:47:58 Do you treat CTCL with whole body radiation therapy and interferon injections?

00:48:53 I am unsure if my prescribed ointments are working, should I leave them on small areas to see what happens? I do not want to risk potential side effects if they have no or little effect.

00:50:20 Do you recommend that Sezary patients join clinical trials?

00:50:55 What is the best chemo that I can receive?

00:51:27 I am 80 years, have had CTCL for 15 years, and this year it has spread all over my legs, arms and chest. I am treating with topical medications and am in the sun a lot too. I am getting concerned, any advice?

00:52:20 I've been diagnosed with Sezary, can I then go down to a lower stage?

00:53:30 My grandfather has Sezary syndrome, do I need to worry that I or my children will get it?

00:53:43 What are my options for remission?

00:54:14 Isn't it very risky to have a stem cell transplant? If they wipe out my immune system, and I can't fight the Sezary, how will I know if it is worth the risk?

00:54:49 Do you advise the use of Keytruda and like immune drugs for Sezary?