Skin cancer after transplantation

Advances in transplantation technique and posttransplantation immunosuppression have resulted in continual improvements in survival and quality of life of transplant recipients. The improved quality of life afforded in the posttransplantation period allows patients to lead more active lifestyles, which often includes increased exposure to solar radiation. This growing population of active, immunosuppressed individuals is at marked risk, up to 65 times that of the general population, for the development of cutaneous neoplasms with associated morbidity and mortality. Prevention, prompt recognition, and effective treatment of skin cancer in this immunosuppressed population are vital.