Dupixent® (dupilumab) is a widely used treatment for eczema, asthma, and chronic sinus conditions. Unfortunately, research has shown a link between Dupixent and a rare type of cancer known as cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL).
CTCL is a form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that affects the skin, often causing rashes or abnormal growths of skin cells. Recent studies have found that patients taking Dupixent were more likely to be diagnosed with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma than those who were not.
Eczema patients treated with Dupixent were about 4.6 times more likely to develop CTCL than non-users, according to Dermatologic Therapy.
Most cases of dupilumab and lymphoma appeared within the first year of treatment, especially among older adults, and the drug's warning label failed to alert patients to this potential risk.
Now, victims are taking legal action against Dupixent's manufacturers to pursue compensation for the harm they've suffered. Let Sokolove Law fight for you.
Dupixent Cancer Risk: Dupilumab & Lymphoma
Because cutaneous T-cell lymphoma often resembles severe eczema, it's often difficult to recognize in patients using Dupixent, especially since the pharmaceutical drug reduces inflammation and can temporarily improve skin symptoms.
Patients with atopic dermatitis who used Dupixent had a 310% increased Dupixent lymphoma risk compared to non-users, according to the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.
Researchers believe Dupixent’s powerful anti-inflammatory effects may mask early signs of CTCL, making it appear as though eczema is improving while cancerous T-cells continue to spread beneath the surface.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has received reports of lymphoma linked to Dupixent. An analysis of the FDA’s Adverse Event Reporting System identified at least 113 cases of Dupixent and lymphoma, as noted in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology.
"I noticed the development of what appeared to be hives on my thighs and my back — raised spots that were red and itched like nobody’s business.…The rash was itchy, dry, red, and irritated. It got so bad that I had to change my sheets every other day due to the shedding of my skin."
– Sheila, Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma Survivor
How Does Dupixent Cause Cancer?
While the exact way Dupixent may cause cancer isn't fully understood, research suggests it could contribute to or mask the development of early-stage lymphoma, allowing the disease to progress before it’s detected.
Because Dupixent strongly reduces inflammation, it can improve rashes and skin irritation that resemble eczema, even when those symptoms are actually caused by early-stage lymphoma. This effect may temporarily hide warning signs, delaying diagnosis until the cancer has advanced.
Possible ways Dupixent may contribute to cancer include:
- Masking Early CTCL: Dupixent calms skin inflammation and reduces eczema-like rashes. In some patients, these rashes are early signs of CTCL. By suppressing inflammation, the drug can hide visible symptoms, delaying detection and treatment.
- Revealing Hidden Cancer: Some patients initially treated for eczema are later diagnosed with CTCL. After starting Dupixent, new or worsening skin lesions may appear, suggesting the medication could unmask or accelerate an underlying cancer.
- Interfering with the Immune System: Dupixent blocks interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interleukin-13 (IL-13), two key immune system pathways. Some researchers suggest this could alter immune surveillance, possibly reducing the body’s ability to detect and control abnormal T-cells.
- Progression over Time: Clinical reports and FDA safety data have shown worsening or newly diagnosed CTCL months or years after starting Dupixent, indicating a possible link between long-term treatment and disease progression.
While more research is needed, evidence increasingly shows a real risk of Dupixent masking, accelerating, or contributing to CTCL.
Patients should monitor any persistent or changing skin symptoms and speak with their doctor right away if rashes, lesions, or other dupilumab side effects appear. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing the spread of cancer.
Dupixent Lymphoma Symptoms
Anyone using Dupixent who develops unusual or worsening skin symptoms should speak with their doctor as soon as possible. Early detection of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma may affect your treatment options and long-term outcomes.
Unlike most cancers that start inside the body, CTCL first appears on the skin, which is why it can easily be mistaken for eczema or psoriasis in its early stages. Symptoms often develop slowly and may change or worsen over time, sometimes spreading to other parts of the body if left untreated.
Common Dupixent side effects and cancer symptoms include:
- Changes in skin color or areas that darken or lighten over time
- Fatigue or unexplained weight loss in more advanced cases
- Patches or rashes that resemble eczema or psoriasis, often red, dry, or scaly
- Persistent itching that doesn't respond to standard eczema treatments
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin
- Thickened plaques or raised skin lesions that itch or hurt
- Tumors or nodules that can ulcerate or bleed
"Most people with this disease just feel itchy. For me, it burns like somebody’s stubbing out a cigarette on my skin."
– Karen, Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma Survivor
Because CTCL looks so much like common skin conditions, it’s often misdiagnosed at first. If you have eczema-like symptoms that don’t improve with standard treatments — or if your skin improves temporarily but new or unusual lesions appear later — it’s important to see a doctor for further testing.
Get Help Filing a Dupixent Lymphoma Lawsuit
If you or a loved one developed cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) after using Dupixent, you may be eligible for compensation. Potential payouts can help cover medical expenses, lost income, and other damages caused by the delayed diagnosis or progression of this rare cancer.
Many patients feel overwhelmed navigating the legal process on their own. At Sokolove Law, we'll take care of everything on your behalf, so you can focus on your recovery.
Why choose us to file your Dupixent lymphoma lawsuit?
- Over 45 years of experience handling complex dangerous drug cases
- Nationwide network of attorneys, allowing us to help patients in all 50 states
- More than $1.6 Billion secured from pharmaceutical and medical device cases
There are no upfront costs or hourly fees to file a Dupixent lymphoma lawsuit. We only get paid if your case results in compensation.
Call (800) 995-1212 right now or get a free case review to see if we may be able to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
