Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma of the scalp in the immunocompromised patient: review of 53 cases

Abstract

level 2b (retrospective cohort).

Presence of cutaneous human papillomavirus DNA in squamous cell carcinoma of the scalp: a case series

“…2,3 The exposure to UVR is thought to provoke local immunosuppression leading to DNA mutations and deterioration of the integrity of p53-mediated tumour suppression mechanisms. 1,2,4 Using a highly reproducible technique, the presence of mucosal HPVs was not detected in any of our samples, confirming that a-HPV types infect only the mucosae with the exception of the nail apparatus, suggesting a possible transmission from the genital tract. 10 Nevertheless, the high prevalence of b-HPV types in SCC of the scalp may demonstrate the synergistic effect of viral gene expression with UV radiation in the development of these tumours.…”

“…UVR, in particular in elderly and hairless individuals with frequent sun exposure due to lifelong habits, is considered the main risk factor to develop these tumours. 4 This study was designed to evaluate the presence of HPVs in SCC of the scalp from a selected population, using HPV amplification and detection methods.…”

“…Squamous cell carcinoma in the scalp typically arises in older patients with photo-damaged skin and in hairless people. 4 Sunburns and intense episodes of UV exposure are very frequent due to tanning and outdoor working, with the consequence of increased risk of premalignant lesion (actinic keratosis), 'in between' (Bowen's disease and keratoacanthoma) and non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) occurrence. 1,4,9 The patients were seven men and one woman with a mean age of 76.4 years (71-83 years).…”

Bone resection for facial cutaneous malignancies

“…A recent study by Kadakia et al suggests that immunosuppression is a bad prognosticator in patients with scalp SCC. While this is in line with our clinical experience we were unable to confirm their findings as only 5% of our patients were immunocompromised.…”

Malignant cutaneous tumours of the scalp: always remember to examine the head

“…3). 43 Risk factors include UV exposure, fair phototypes, history of skin cancer, increased age and immunosuppression 44,45 . The role of human papillomavirus has been proposed to be involved in its pathogenesis 46,47 .…”