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Published on: May 25, 2018
Cutaneous metastases in neonates: a review
1Department of Pathology, Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, San Diego, California 92123, USA. hisaacs@ucsd.edu
Pediatric Dermatology
|April 21, 2011
Summary
Malignant tumors in neonates frequently present as blueberry muffin-like skin nodules. Leukemia and neuroblastoma offer better survival rates than rhabdoid tumors or rhabdomyosarcoma in infants.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Neonatal Medicine
Background:
- Cutaneous metastases in neonates are rare but indicate aggressive malignancy.
- Understanding the specific malignancies and their presentation in newborns is crucial for early diagnosis and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review malignancies associated with cutaneous metastases in neonates.
- To identify common dermatologic findings and their correlation with specific cancers.
- To analyze survival rates based on malignancy type.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 208 neonates diagnosed with malignant tumors and skin metastases.
- Analysis of malignancy types, dermatologic findings, and patient survival outcomes.
Main Results:
- Leukemia, Langerhans cell histiocytosis, and neuroblastoma were the most common associated malignancies.
- Bluish skin nodules (blueberry muffin baby appearance) were observed in 82% of cases.
- Rhabdoid tumor and rhabdomyosarcoma had the poorest survival rates (4% and 15%), while neuroblastoma had the best (58%).
Conclusions:
- Cutaneous metastases in neonates, particularly the blueberry muffin appearance, are significant indicators of underlying malignancy.
- Survival rates vary significantly by cancer type, highlighting the need for tailored treatment strategies.
- Neonatal presentation of malignancy differs from that in older children, emphasizing unique diagnostic and prognostic considerations.
