Skin cancer risk after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) has improved outcomes for severe hematologic, malignant, and immune disorders, yet poses an increased risk of subsequent malignancies. This study aimed to examine the risk of skin cancer following HSCT and identify potential risk factors. The search was conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL databases until December 2023. Cohort studies reporting standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) for post-HSCT skin cancer or investigating risk factors were included. SIRs, or hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence interval (CI), were calculated using random-effects inverse-variance models. Outcome endpoints were SIRs of skin cancer post-HSCT and risk factors, including gender, chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD), voriconazole exposure, and total body irradiation (TBI). Twenty-six studies involving 164,944 HSCT recipients (allogeneic HSCT, n = 68,637; autologous HSCT, n = 95,435; mean age: 38.5 ± 13.8 years; 71,354 females [43.3%]) were analyzed. Overall, SIR for skin cancer post-HSCT was 7.21 (95% CI 3.98-13.08), with SIRs of 2.25 (95% CI: 1.37-3.68) for autologous HSCT, and 10.18 (95% CI 5.07-20.43) for allogeneic HSCT. Risk factors for skin cancer risk included cGVHD (HR = 2.86 [95% CI: 2.01-4.07]), specifically for basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) (HR = 1.80 [95% CI: 1.31-2.46] and HR = 3.68 [95% CI: 2.39-5.68], respectively), male gender (HR = 1.56 [95% CI: 1.15-2.13]), especially for SCC (HR = 1.70 [95% CI: 1.03-2.80]), and voriconazole exposure (HR = 2.01 [95% CI: 1.12-3.61]). TBI showed no statistically significant association with subsequent skin cancer (HR = 1.12 [95% CI: 0.73-1.71]). These findings highlight the importance of rigorous skin cancer surveillance and preventive strategies in HSCT recipients, particularly in male individuals undergoing allogeneic transplants and those with identifiable risk factors, to enable early detection and intervention.

Diagnostic accuracy of high-frequency ultrasound for cutaneous neoplasms: a narrative review of the literature.

High-frequency ultrasound has been used to visualize depth and vascularization of cutaneous neoplasms, but little has been synthesized as a review for a robust level of evidence about the diagnostic accuracy of high-frequency ultrasound in dermatology. A narrative review of the PubMed database was performed to establish the correlation between ultrasound findings and histopathologic/dermoscopic findings for cutaneous neoplasms. Articles were divided into the following four categories: melanocytic, keratinocytic/epidermal, appendageal, and soft tissue/neural neoplasms. Review of the literature revealed that ultrasound findings and histopathology findings were strongly correlated regarding the depth of a cutaneous neoplasm. Morphological characteristics were correlated primarily in soft tissue/neural neoplasms. Overall, there is a paucity of literature on the correlation between high-frequency ultrasound and histopathology of cutaneous neoplasms. Further studies are needed to investigate this correlation in various dermatologic conditions.

Hiding in Plain Sight: An Atypical Presentation of the Uncommon Merkel Cell Carcinoma.

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a cutaneous neoplasm that is challenging to diagnose secondary to its rarity. We report a case involving a 76-year-old Caucasian female with a seemingly benign skin nodule on her right forearm. Histopathological analysis revealed characteristics of MCC, including uniform round cells with minimal cytoplasm and fine granular chromatin. Immunohistochemical staining confirmed insulinoma-associated protein 1 (INSM1) positivity, a marker with high sensitivity and specificity in localized MCC diagnosis. The subsequent treatment plan involved wide local excision, sentinel lymph node evaluation, and radiation therapy, aligning with therapeutic standards for MCC. Negative positron emission tomography (PET) scans and follow-up for one year have demonstrated no evidence of recurrence or additional lesions. This case demonstrates the challenges in diagnosing MCC and the need for histopathological and immunohistochemical assessments for an accurate diagnosis. Diagnostic markers, INSM1, are important distinguishing factors between MCC and other skin cancers. In conclusion, our case contributes to the literature in diagnosing MCC and successful treatment, while emphasizing the need for immunohistochemical markers for accurate diagnosis and guiding therapeutic decisions.

Malignant wound aetiology, diagnosis and management: a case series and literature review.

OBJECTIVE: Malignant wounds develop when neoplastic cells invade the skin either locally or by lymphatic and haematogenous spread. They can present as hard-to-heal wounds and underlying causes include: primary skin cancer; metastasis of extracutaneous primary malignancy; malignant transformation of a hard-to-heal wound; iatrogenic injury; and cutaneous forms of cancers of non-skin origin. High clinical suspicion for a malignant wound should be confirmed with skin biopsy. The aim of this case series is to highlight a combination of both clinically clear cutaneous malignancies and not-so-obvious wounds caused by malignancy. METHOD: This case series examines patients with malignant wounds of varying aetiology and appearance. For each case, we explain the pathophysiology, atypical features, diagnostic approach and treatment. We also discuss types of wound biopsy and general wound management principles. RESULTS: Among the 11 cases analysed using descriptive statistics, median wound duration before presentation at our clinic was one year, while median age at presentation was 65 years. Our case series included the following diagnoses: cutaneous metastasis of invasive ductal carcinoma of the breast (n=2); cutaneous metastasis of colorectal adenocarcinoma (n=1); Marjolin's ulcer (n=1), basal cell carcinoma (BCC) (n=2), primary cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) (n=1), metastatic malignant melanoma (n=1), cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (n=1), cutaneous angiosarcoma (n=1), Kaposi sarcoma (n=1) and recurrent tonsillar SCC with osteoradionecrosis (n=1); one case had both BCC and SCC. CONCLUSION: Punch and excisional biopsies were the most frequently used diagnostic techniques. Local wound therapy addressed bleeding, malodour, exudate, pain and infection. However, wound healing is usually achieved once the underlying malignancy is treated. In advanced or metastatic disease, palliative wound care aims to prevent exacerbation of existing wounds and focuses on patient comfort.

An Unusual Case of an ALK-Negative Epithelioid Fibrous Histiocytoma in the External Auditory Canal.

This article represents the first reported case in the external auditory canal of epithelioid fibrous histiocytoma (EFH), a rare benign cutaneous epithelioid neoplasm. Immunostaining revealed uncommon negative staining for anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) expression. This case and literature review outline the diagnostic strategy for this highly unusual neoplasm. Laryngoscope, 134:3371-3373, 2024.

Pleomorphic Fibroma Presenting as a Nodular Lesion in the Left Shoulder: A Case Report.

Pleomorphic fibroma is an uncommon benign cutaneous tumor that often presents as a single asymptomatic skin-colored lesion with indefinite clinical diagnostic features. Here, we report a case of a 47-year-old female diagnosed with pleomorphic fibroma of the skin in the left shoulder and discuss the importance of immunohistochemistry and special features in histopathology to distinguish some of the differentials.

Comparative efficacy analysis identifies immune checkpoint blockade as a new survival benchmark in advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma.

BACKGROUND: Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma is a common type of skin cancer that may progress to locally advanced or metastatic disease. Both disease stages are managed by a variety of treatment options, including immune checkpoint blockade (ICB), targeted therapy to epidermal growth factor, chemotherapy or treatment combinations. However, the comparative efficacy of such treatments is unclear. METHODS: We performed a systematic literature search of Medline, Embase and Central to identify eligible studies reporting Kaplan-Meier curves or individual patient data for overall survival (OS) or progression-free survival (PFS). Kaplan-Meier curves were digitised using the "'WebPlotDigitizer" program. Individual patient data was subsequently remodelled and pooled for distinct treatment groups. RESULTS: Overall, 22 independent studies were included of which n = 927 patients were evaluable for PFS and n = 1054 for OS. ICB showed the highest median PFS (mPFS 9.9 months (95% CI: 8.1-19.9)) and median OS (mOS not reached (95% CI: 31.5 months-not reached)) compared to chemotherapy (mPFS 3.0 months (95% CI: 2.2-4.8), mOS 12.6 months (95% CI: 9.6-15.8)), targeted therapy to epidermal growth factor (mPFS 4.9 months (95% CI: 4.4-5.6), mOS 12.7 months (95% CI: 11.9-14.9)) and combination therapies without ICB (mPFS 9.1 months (95% CI: 8.0-12.1), mOS 18.1 months (95% CI: 16.3-22.8)). The survival benchmark with ICB after 26 months for metastatic squamous cell carcinoma was 70.8% (95% CI: 61.5%-81.5%) versus 37.9% (95% CI: 29.5%-48.8%) for the combination group and 17.1% (95% CI: 9.5%-30.8%) for chemotherapy. CONCLUSION: ICB is superior to other systemic treatments and sets a novel survival benchmark for advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma.

Primary cutaneous extraskeletal osteosarcoma of the pretibial leg: A case report and summary of the literature.

Primary cutaneous extraskeletal osteosarcoma is a rare tumor, with fewer than 30 known cases worldwide. We report the case of a 60-year-old female who presented with a solitary right pretibial nodule of 3 mm. She had no known comorbidities, trauma to the area, or prior malignancy. The biopsy specimen showed abundant mineralized osteoid, in which pleomorphic and spindled cells with anaplastic features were embedded. The osteoid matrix in this case contained overtly malignant cells, with frequent mitotic figures, as well as multinucleated giant cells. Immunohistochemistry and imaging led to the conclusion that this nodule represented a primary cutaneous extraskeletal osteosarcoma. The previously reported cases are variable in location, size, gross appearance, and clinical course. The prognosis of osteosarcoma is typically poor, with aggressive behavior; this, however, may be less severe in these strictly cutaneous tumors, though additional follow-up would be beneficial to determine long-term outcomes for the known cases. Ultimately, despite the fact that this is an extremely rare entity, primary cutaneous extraskeletal osteosarcomas should be considered when relevant.

Bullous Pilomatrixoma After COVID-19 Vaccination.

Pilomatrixoma, or calcifying epithelioma of Malherbe, is a benign tumor with differentiation toward the hair matrix cells and is one of childhood's most common epithelial tumors. Bullous pilomatrixoma has an extremely low incidence of occurrence, usually appears in the upper extremities, and is frequently associated with trauma. We report the case of a bullous pilomatrixoma in a patient with a rapid-growing neoformation one month after receiving a coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine in his left upper arm, and we discuss whether the bullous appearance is part of the biology of the tumor or a secondary anetoderma.

Cutaneous Vascular Neoplasms of Uncertain Biological Behavior.

Neoplasms of uncertain biological behavior present physicians with a genuine conundrum in practice. Cutaneous vascular neoplasms within this category are exceedingly rare, possessing significant gaps and uncertainty in many facets of clinical practice. Firstly, lesions were selected for review based on their categorization as indeterminate behavior, indicating the potential for local recurrence and rarely metastasize. After identification of the target lesions, a comprehensive review of the literature using national databases produced several landmark studies and case series regarding these neoplasms. Limiting the review to only cutaneous limited tumors narrowed the pool of studies; however, quite a large sum of papers remained. Examination of each paper yielded beneficial results on diagnosing, effective treatments, follow-up findings, and prognosis for each indeterminate lesion discussed. Overall, the literature search combined the molecular, histologic, immunohistochemical, surgical strategies to develop an up-to-date and comprehensive framework to guide physicians when encountering such lesions. The tumors reviewed include: kaposiform hemangioendothelioma, endovascular papillary angioendothelioma, pseudomyogenic hemangioendothelioma, retiform hemangioendothelioma, epithelioid hemangioendothelioma, and composite hemangioendothelioma.

Trends in the incidence and morbidity of Merkel cell carcinoma in Brazil.

Aims: The current study aims to present epidemiologic changes and clinical aspects of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) in Brazil. Methods: Data were collected from the Brazilian Population-Based Cancer Registries (2000-2015) and Hospital-Based Cancer Registries (2000-2017). Results: The average age-standardized incidence rates significantly increased in men between the years 2000 (0.31/1,000,000) and 2015 (1.21/1,000,000), with an annual percentage change of 9.4 (95% CI: 4.7-14.4; p < 0.001). In women, the incidence rates rose insignificantly in the period with an annual percentage change of 3.1 (95% CI: 0.0-6.2; p < 0.10). From the hospital-based database, 881 MCC patients were identified. Most of the patients were females (51.2%), aged >60 years (82.2%), White (67.6%) and diagnosed at stages III or IV (50.5%). Conclusions: A key aspect of public health promotion is to understand the incidence and morbidity of MCC.

Lay abstract Aims: The current study aims to present epidemiologic changes and clinical aspects of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) in Brazil. Methods: Data were collected from the Brazilian Population-Based Cancer Registries (2000­2015) and Hospital-Based Cancer Registries (2000­2017). Results: The incidence rates significantly increased in men between the years 2000 and 2015. In women, the incidence rates rose insignificantly in the same period. From the hospital-based database, MCC patients were identified. Most of the patients were females, aged >60 years, White and diagnosed with locally advanced and advanced stages. Conclusions: A key aspect of public health promotion is to understand the incidence and morbidity of MCC.

A lobulated mass on the upper back with prominent vasculature: A giant basal cell carcinoma.

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is characterized by slow but locally invasive growth. Although there is low metastatic potential, if not treated early, these skin cancers can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. In this case report, we present a man with a neglected BCC that developed into what is termed a giant BCC or one that is greater than 5 cm. This tumor was discovered only upon workup of orthostatic lightheadedness and iron deficiency anemia. Although rare, basal cell carcinoma must be included on the differential of a large cutaneous lesion and may be a source of significant blood loss.

Primary cutaneous malignant perivascular epithelioid cell tumor: Case of a rare tumor with review of the literature.

Perivascular epithelioid cell tumors (PEComas) are mesenchymal neoplasms with characteristic epithelioid or spindled cytomorphology that typically grow around blood vessels. These tumors are phenotypically and immunohistochemically distinct, expressing markers of both melanocytic and smooth muscle differentiation. Herein, we describe a case of histopathologically malignant cutaneous PEComa without metastatic spread, with review of the pertinent literature. Telescoping punch biopsy demonstrated an epithelioid neoplasm with marked atypia, hypercellularity, and increased mitotic activity. Immunohistochemical stains for HMB-45, NK1-C3, PGP9.5, MiTF, CD10, and CD68 were positive within tumor cells. In addition, there was diffuse expression of caldesmon and focal cytoplasmic staining for smooth muscle actin on the excision specimen. The patient underwent treatment with surgical excision with adjuvant radiation and surveillance computed tomography (CT). The patient remains free of recurrence or metastatic disease after 10 months of follow-up. To our knowledge, this is only the third reported case of a malignant cutaneous PEComa reported in the literature to date.

Primary and isolated cutaneous precursor B-lymphoblastic lymphoma in an infant.

Cutaneous lesions may represent the initial sign of various neoplasms in children, including histiocytosis, neuroblastomas, and lymphomas. Primary cutaneous lymphoblastic lymphomas are rare and involve mostly the B-cell phenotype. Herein, we report a case of isolated, primary B-lymphoblastic lymphoma in a 7-month-old infant and emphasize the importance of early diagnosis.

Primary cutaneous blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm in a child: A challenging diagnosis and management.

Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN) is a rare and aggressive malignancy of the skin and hematopoietic system. There are few pediatric cases reported in the literature. Management of primary cutaneous BPDCN is challenging because, despite an apparently indolent clinical presentation, rapid dissemination with high mortality can occur. We describe a child with isolated cutaneous involvement who had a good response to chemotherapy as first-line treatment of BPDCN.

Molecular profiling of a primary cutaneous signet-ring cell/histiocytoid carcinoma of the eyelid.

Primary cutaneous signet-ring cell/histiocytoid carcinoma of the eyelid is a rare and aggressive neoplasm. Fewer than 50 cases have been reported in the literature, and the genetic driving mutations are unknown. Herein, we present a case of this rare disease along with the results of molecular profiling via targeted next-generation sequencing. The patient is an 85-year-old man who presented with left eyelid swelling initially thought to be a chalazion. After no response to incision and drainage and antibiotics, an incisional biopsy was performed. Histopathologic sections revealed a proliferation of cells with signet-ring and histiocytoid morphology arranged singly and in cords infiltrating the dermis, subcutaneous tissue, and muscle. The lesional cells strongly expressed cytoplasmic cytokeratin 7 and nuclear androgen receptor. Next-generation sequencing revealed a CDH1 mutation, which is known to confer signet-ring morphology in other carcinomas. Pathogenic mutations in NTRK3, CDKN1B, and PIK3CA were also detected. To our knowledge, this is the first documented genetic analysis of this rare disease with findings that offer insights into disease pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets.