Topical and oral bexarotene

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