[The management of cutaneous metastases]

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Dermatology
• Pathology

Context:

• Cutaneous metastases represent a rare but significant clinical finding.
• Their varied presentation necessitates inclusion in the differential diagnosis for accurate identification.
• The presence of skin metastases often indicates advanced disease and a poor prognosis.

Purpose:

• To highlight the diagnostic challenges and prognostic implications of cutaneous metastases.
• To outline current therapeutic strategies for managing skin involvement in cancer patients.
• To emphasize the importance of palliative care and quality of life in treatment decisions.

Summary:

• Cutaneous metastases are uncommon, typically signaling a grave prognosis.
• Diagnosis relies on considering these lesions within the differential diagnosis due to their variable appearance.
• Treatment primarily aims for palliation, prioritizing patient quality of life, often involving combination chemotherapy for systemic disease, and surgery or radiotherapy for local control and wound management.

Impact:

• Improved awareness among clinicians regarding the possibility of cutaneous metastases.
• Enhanced diagnostic accuracy through consideration in differential diagnoses.
• Better patient management strategies focusing on palliative care and quality of life, alongside oncological treatments.