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Updated: Jul 20, 2026
08:59
A Model for Perineural Invasion in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Published on: January 5, 2017
Aggressive squamous carcinomas of the scalp
Pearon G Lang1, Martin A Braun, Rajiv Kwatra
1Department of Dermatology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA. langpg@musc.edu
Summary
Aggressive squamous cell carcinomas of the scalp can be fatal and spread to other areas. Early diagnosis and treatment, including wide excision and radiation, are crucial for managing these challenging scalp tumors.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Surgical Oncology
- Oncology
Background:
- Squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) of the scalp can display aggressive behavior.
- Some scalp SCCs present with advanced features like recurrence, metastasis, and bone invasion.
Observation:
- Eleven cases of aggressive scalp SCC were reviewed.
- Tumors exhibited recurrence post-Mohs surgery, satellite lesions, bone invasion, and metastasis.
- Patients presented with long-standing alopecia and significant actinic damage.
Findings:
- Five of eleven patients died from their disease.
- Four patients developed satellite lesions and recurred despite clear margins.
- Initial biopsies showed moderate to well-differentiated tumors.
Implications:
- Aggressive scalp SCC necessitates prompt diagnosis and treatment.
- Wide excision with margin control, grafting, and radiation are recommended for satellitosis.
- Caution is advised with radiation due to osteoradionecrosis risk.
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