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[Scalp metastasis from small cell carcinoma of the rectum: an unusual case]
Lobna Ayadi1, Jihène Zribi, Taha J Mziou
1Laboratoire d'Anatomie et de CytologiePathologiques, CHU, Habib Bourguiba Sfax-Tunisie.
Background:
Cutaneous metastasis of rectal carcinoma is a rare event. It occurs in 4% of all patients with rectal cancer. Skin metastasis of rectal cancer are usually detected near the initial tumor, especially in the periumbilical region; but they rarely occur in the scalp.
Aim:
To report a new case of scalp metastases from rectal tumor.
Case Report:
Our patient was a 63-year old male with a history of small cell carcinoma of the rectum who subsequently developed a single nodule of the scalp of 4cm. Histopathological analysis revealed a small cell carcinoma infiltrating the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. The patient underwent palliative chemotherapy but his disease continued to progress.
Conclusion:
In contrast to the prior cases of scalp metastases reported in the literature, ours is the first documentation of such an occurrence from rectal small cell carcinoma. The early diagnosis of skin metastases in these patients is very important because it can alter treatment.
Insights
Scalp metastasis from rectal cancer is rare, occurring in only 4% of cases. This report details the first documented instance of scalp metastasis originating from small cell rectal carcinoma, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Cutaneous metastasis from rectal carcinoma is infrequent, with skin lesions typically appearing near the primary tumor.
- While periumbilical region metastasis is common, scalp involvement is exceptionally rare.
Observation:
- A 63-year-old male with a history of small cell carcinoma of the rectum presented with a 4cm scalp nodule.
- Histopathological examination confirmed small cell carcinoma infiltrating the dermis and subcutaneous tissue.
Findings:
- This case represents the first documented instance of scalp metastasis from rectal small cell carcinoma.
- The patient's disease progressed despite palliative chemotherapy.
Implications:
- Early detection of skin metastases in rectal cancer patients is crucial as it can influence treatment strategies.
- This finding expands the known spectrum of cutaneous manifestations of rectal cancer.
