Cutaneous neoplasms in renal transplant recipients

Cutaneous neoplasms are much more common in renal transplant recipients than in the general population, and are the most common malignancies in these patients. This is the case with basal cell carcinoma, and even more so with squamous cell carcinoma. Many risk factors for development of such malignancies are similar to those in the general population. However, in the transplant population, such cancers appear at an earlier age, behave more aggressively, and frequently appear at multiple sites. Therefore, diligence on the part of the patient and on the part of his or her health care providers is of utmost importance. Treatment options include reduction in immunosuppression, but preventive maintenance remains the primary focus of efforts to limit these malignancies.