My Journey with Lymphoma: A Personal Reflection
I’m uncertain if this is the appropriate forum for my story, but I haven’t found others who share this particular experience. About five years ago, I received a diagnosis of a rare form of lymphoma known as mycosis fungoides. Fortunately, it is quite manageable and doesn’t compare to the severe conditions faced by others. Rewind to eight years ago; I was grappling with addiction to opiates when I discovered a medication called Stablon, or tianeptine. Initially, it seemed enjoyable but proved to be highly addictive, leading to intense withdrawal symptoms. Eventually, I managed to achieve sobriety for several years before I relapsed. I felt drawn to the substance again, but upon taking it, I was met with severe rashes that erupted across my lower abdomen, buttocks, thighs, and patches on my arms and underarms. At first, I suspected these rashes might be a reaction to my allergy medication or some other factor. However, driven by my addictive tendencies, I continued to use Stablon. Each time I took the medication, the rash would return, which happened repeatedly—around six to eight instances. The most intense reactions appeared 10 to 20 minutes post-ingestion. My denial as an addict led me to dismiss the possibility that this drug was the culprit, especially since I hadn't experienced such reactions during my initial use. I convinced myself it was worth enduring the side effects for the high, but I quickly realized the opposite was true. After several weeks of repeated use, my ex-partner urged me to consult a dermatologist, who initially diagnosed the issue as eczema. Thankfully, she proceeded with a biopsy. To my surprise, the results indicated mycosis fungoides. It’s quite unusual for someone my age, just 28 at the time. Following that, I visited another doctor, who corroborated this finding. As my rashes began to diminish, I started to question whether tianeptine was indeed responsible for my skin issues. Overcome by my addiction, I ordered it again, and true to form, 10 minutes after taking it, the rash returned. I still have yet to disclose this to my oncologist or hematologist. Recently, I have refrained from using the substance, which has led to a cessation of rashes. In full honesty, I acknowledge my foolishness. Even after the initial consultations with my doctor three years prior, I sought out a different source for the drug, hoping for a different outcome. As you might guess, the rash reemerged, leaving me with yet another round of itchy, painful welts. This post aims to shed light on my ordeal, as I’ve scoured the internet for insights on how cutaneous T-cell lymphoma like mycosis fungoides arises. Maybe sharing my ignorance will be informative for some medical professional out there. To note, I have not experienced any outbreaks in the past two years since I last took tianeptine, and I am certain that if I were to use it again, the rash would inevitably return. If this post violates any guidelines, please feel free to delete it.
Answers (1)

7/11/2025, 12:02:30 AM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your story. It takes courage to reflect on such personal experiences, especially related to health challenges and addiction. While your case is specific to your journey, there are several important takeaways regarding mycosis fungoides, tianeptine, and your overall health management.
Key Points:
- Mycosis Fungoides: This is a type of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma that often manifests through skin rashes. Your symptoms and experience highlight the importance of monitoring skin changes.
- Tianeptine and Allergic Reactions: It's clear that your use of tianeptine has led to significant skin reactions, which you have wisely ceased, indicating an awareness of your triggers.
Explanation:
Mycosis fungoides can be complex and rare, primarily affecting the skin, though its connection with other conditions, including potential drug reactions, can complicate its management. It's good to hear that you've not had recent outbreaks since stopping tianeptine, as avoiding known triggers is essential for anyone experiencing similar issues.
Next Steps:
- Open Communication with Your Healthcare Providers: It’s important that you discuss your experiences with tianeptine and the associated skin reactions with your oncologist or hematologist. This can help them understand your condition and tailor your treatment plan accordingly.
- Monitor Skin Changes: Continue to be observant of any skin changes or other symptoms. A regular check-in with your dermatologist might be beneficial, especially if you notice any new issues.
- Explore Support Resources: Since you’ve shared your struggles with addiction, consider connecting with support groups or counseling services focused on addiction recovery. This can provide you with a supportive community and help prevent relapse into substance use.
- Prioritize Healthy Coping Strategies: Engage in healthy habits that support your mental and physical well-being—this might include exercise, mindfulness, or hobbies that foster joy.
It’s commendable that you are reflecting on your health journey and seeking to understand it better. Sharing your experience may indeed help others dealing with similar challenges. Remember that you are not alone, and support is available to help you on your path to wellness.
Related Questions
Navigating the Discovery of a Hepatic Hemangioma: Next Steps
Recently, I underwent an MRI to investigate persistent discomfort in my upper right back, which unexpectedly revealed a lesion, prompting a follow-up ultrasound. The subsequent examinations, including both a contrast and non-contrast MRI, yielded the following findings: 1. A benign hepatic lesion, most likely a hemangioma located in segment VI of the right lobe of the liver, measuring approximately 3.7x4.1x4.2 cm. 2. Simple renal cortical cysts observed bilaterally, with the largest measuring 1.0 cm in my right kidney. 3. No other notable abnormalities detected. To my surprise, my liver-related blood tests came back normal, adding to the shock of this unexpected diagnosis. Physicians repeatedly inquired about any symptoms I might be experiencing. However, honestly, I'm uncertain. I've dealt with chronic fatigue and have previously been diagnosed with fibromyalgia; moreover, my back pain could be attributed to a pinched nerve. Given the size of the hemangioma, I’m left wondering if removal is warranted or if I should simply monitor its growth. My primary care physician suggested we reassess everything in six months to track any changes, which leaves me questioning whether this lesion could be the cause of many of my ongoing health issues rather than what I previously believed. Additionally, I wanted to mention that I had a gallbladder ultrasound conducted 2.5 years ago, initiated by my gastroenterologist due to some irritation linked to my existing Erosive Gastritis. In the report from April 2023, it clearly indicated that I had no abnormalities, masses, or cysts in the liver. Shouldn't a hemangioma of this size have been detectable back then? Is it possible it developed rapidly since then? My primary care doctor found the situation perplexing and speculated that it might have been overlooked due to the primary focus on my gallbladder. The imaging angle could also have affected the visibility of the lesion. From my understanding, this hemangioma is situated on the lower right side of my liver. What are your thoughts? Would consulting with a hepatologist or a surgeon be a prudent next step? I am feeling quite overwhelmed and uncertain following this unexpected turn of events.
Strange Blisters After Cellulitis Treatment
I’m a 22-year-old female, standing at 5'3", and I recently completed a course of antibiotics for cellulitis just yesterday. A couple of days into the treatment, I discovered unusual blisters filled with clear fluid on the leg that was infected. Surprisingly, these blisters have also started to manifest on the opposite leg. They’re not painful, just a bit itchy. Additionally, I experienced a significant sunburn three days before my cellulitis diagnosis. Could this be a lingering effect of the sunburn, or might it indicate a more serious issue? Further details are available in the comments section.
Changes in a Puncture Hematoma: From Injury to New Concerns
Summary: An injury caused by a tack remover resulted in a large internal bruise that has since left a hard lump in my leg. Recently, after bumping it, the lump shifted position and became smaller. Last year, while trying to clear out screw holes on my metal roof in a rushed manner, I improperly wielded a tack remover. The tool slipped, resulting in a painful stab just below my knee. I quickly removed it and descended from the roof, reassured to find the bleeding ceased almost instantly. After carefully cleaning and bandaging the wound, I went about my day. However, after about two hours of activity, I noticed that the bandage was feeling unusually tight. Upon inspection, I discovered that the wound had been bleeding internally, causing a sizeable hematoma which began to grow significantly. I sought help from an EMT, concerned it might lead to compartment syndrome, and was advised to head to the emergency room. An X-ray confirmed extensive internal bleeding, with the hematoma nearly reaching the size of my knee. Fortunately, the wound eventually healed, albeit leaving a hard, immobile lump that felt like bone. Some months later, I accidentally fell on that area. To my surprise, the lump appeared to be smaller than before. A couple of weeks later, two identical lumps emerged overnight on every distal joint of my fingers. Just two weeks after that, the same phenomenon occurred on all ten toes. X-rays of my hands showed no abnormalities, leading me to consider the possibility of reactive arthritis, for which I have an appointment scheduled with a rheumatologist in September. Each time I discuss my knee lump with different doctors, they examine it briefly before expressing mild concern. This morning, I accidentally hit my leg against a drawer. An hour later, I squatted down and experienced familiar pain, noticing that the lump had shifted again—it was now smaller and seemed to have moved closer to my kneecap, rather than being located an inch below as it used to be. I am filled with questions regarding this unusual development. What exactly is this lump? Could it consist of metal fragments my body has surrounded? Is there a possibility of having it surgically removed? Moreover, could this lump be linked to the recent appearances of similar lumps on my fingers and toes? How can I seek further assistance if my primary care physicians dismiss these concerns?
Is This Epilepsy?
**Age Group:** 20s **Concerned Area:** Brain **Duration of Issues:** Over the past few years During the last four years, I’ve experienced multiple concerning incidents related to my head. It all began after an unfortunate encounter on a train where a homeless individual coughed directly on me. Subsequently, I developed pneumonia, and eventually, meningitis. I owe my recovery to the use of a steroid inhaler and antibiotics; without them, I genuinely believe I wouldn’t have survived. One morning, I woke up with a painfully stiff neck, icy hands, sensitivity to light, and an overwhelming sense of fatigue. At first, I assumed I must have slept awkwardly, so I decided to use my cold hands to ease the discomfort in my neck. In a surprising turn, my body tensed up suddenly, and I lost consciousness, falling off the bed—an event that I suspect was a seizure. The aftermath left me feeling quite disoriented. On another occasion, I was randomly assaulted when someone struck me in the back of my head. Following that, I found myself under significant stress during which my right eye experienced a strange malfunction, leading to a stroke-like episode that doctors later identified as a hemiplegic migraine. Shortly after visiting the emergency room, I caught COVID-19 while waiting, and post-recovery, I noticed that every cough caused my head to spin to an alarming degree, almost causing me to lose my balance. Coupled with this, I had clear fluid incessantly leaking from my nose, which was identified as cerebrospinal fluid. I've undergone an MRI and various other medical tests. Lately, I've been plagued by feelings of confusion and occasional déjà vu. It often feels like I’m disconnected from my own body. Just today, I felt particularly out of touch. In moments of high stress, I often feel dazed and unable to grasp what’s happening around me. Despite consulting several doctors, their responses have left me feeling frustrated and without clarity on the situation.
Is It Possible to Retain a Mark from an IV?
A 38-year-old woman, standing 5 feet tall and weighing 175 pounds, who is menopausal due to a hysterectomy and is on estrogen therapy, shares her experience. On May 6th, I visited the emergency room (ER) where an IV was inserted into my forearm. The process was quite painful. I ended up in a side waiting area, separate from the larger main area. Previously, I had worked in this ER and knew that this particular zone was designated for overflow or those needing IVs but without a room available. IVs can often be a source of discomfort, and I usually take the chance to rest when I can, laying in bed to nap. However, on this occasion, I opted for a standard chair, and any slight shift in position caused significant pain. After some time, the nurse came over and promptly removed the IV, and I felt a sharp pang as she did. She instructed me to press a gauze pad against the site. On my journey home, I noticed more bleeding than usual—while it wasn't excessive, it was still above my norm. The following day, I discovered that the area was significantly bruised, a deep purple hue extending about 2-3 inches in diameter. Over the next few weeks, it gradually healed, but as of today, I am left with a faint brownish mark. It's subtle enough that others might not notice it, yet it's visible to me when I extend my arm. Is this a common occurrence? Might the abrupt removal of the IV be the cause of this lingering mark? Thank you in advance for your insights!