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Emerging dermatologic issues in the oncology patient
Steven R Mays1, Philip R Cohen
1Department of Dermatology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA. stevenmays@earthlink.net
Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery
|December 19, 2006
Summary
Cancer patients experience unique skin conditions, including invasive mold infections and chemotherapy-induced eruptions. Leukemia and lymphoma patients face increased risks of fungal infections and skin cancers like squamous cell carcinoma.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Oncology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Cancer patients, particularly those with leukemia/lymphoma, exhibit distinct skin disease patterns compared to other immunosuppressed individuals.
- Invasive mold infections, especially Aspergillus, are a leading cause of mortality in leukemia/lymphoma patients.
- Certain chemotherapy agents and specific hematologic malignancies are associated with unique dermatologic toxicities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the spectrum of cutaneous manifestations in oncology patients.
- To highlight invasive mold infections in leukemia/lymphoma patients.
- To discuss chemotherapy-induced pustular eruptions and increased skin cancer risk in specific patient groups.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on cutaneous manifestations in oncology patients.
- Analysis of data concerning invasive mold infections in leukemia/lymphoma populations.
- Examination of chemotherapy-related dermatologic side effects and skin cancer incidence.
Main Results:
- Aspergillus mold infections are the primary infectious cause of death in leukemia/lymphoma patients.
- A new class of chemotherapy for solid tumors can cause pustular eruptions.
- Chronic lymphocytic leukemia and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma patients have a higher incidence of cutaneous squamous cell and basal cell carcinomas, often with a more aggressive course.
Conclusions:
- Skin manifestations in cancer patients are diverse and require specific recognition.
- Invasive fungal infections and iatrogenic skin conditions pose significant risks in immunosuppressed cancer patients.
- Increased surveillance for skin cancers is warranted in certain leukemia and lymphoma populations due to higher frequency and aggressive behavior.
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