Squamous cell carcinoma of the scalp in organ transplant recipients: exploring mechanisms for recurrence and treatment guidelines.
BACKGROUND
The scalp is a target for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in male organ transplant recipients (OTRs) with alopecia. These tumors can behave aggressively and are associated with high recurrence, morbidity, and mortality. Treatment guidelines are needed for SCC in the scalp of OTRs.


OBJECTIVE
To explore the clinical and histologic features associated with SCC recurrence and aggressiveness in the scalp of OTRs. We review the mechanisms involved as they relate to a case. An algorithm for evaluation and treatment is introduced.


METHODS
An OTR presented with poorly differentiated SCC of the scalp that recurred on three occasions after Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS). The final recurrence invaded the bone and cranial cavity. We discuss the difficulties encountered in evaluating and treating these patients.


RESULTS
This patient had multiple factors associated with high tumor recurrence and aggressiveness. These were explored, and an algorithm was created.


CONCLUSIONS
SCC in the scalp of OTRs presents challenges for evaluation and management. We must be vigilant to monitor for recurrence, perineural invasion, bone invasion, multiple-field tumors, and metastasis. An understanding of the mechanisms of tumor recurrence will assist us in preventing morbidity and mortality in this subset of patients.
Neubauer
Karen E
KE
Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center, Leawood, Kansas, USA. dhenke@kc.rr.com
Goldstein
Glenn D
GD
Plumb
Stephen J
SJ
D000328:Adult; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery*; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D016030:Kidney Transplantation / Q000009:adverse effects*; D008297:Male; D015580:Mohs Surgery; D009361:Neoplasm Invasiveness / Q000473:pathology; D009364:Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery*; D009367:Neoplasm Staging; D016035:Pancreas Transplantation / Q000009:adverse effects*; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D012535:Scalp / Q000473:pathology; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery*