Paraneoplastic cutaneous manifestations: concepts and updates

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Oncology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• The skin can reflect underlying systemic diseases, including internal malignancies.
• Cutaneous manifestations, though uncommon, are crucial indicators of neoplastic diseases.
• Early identification of paraneoplastic dermatoses can significantly impact cancer diagnosis and patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review paraneoplastic cutaneous manifestations strongly associated with neoplasms.
• To discuss the clinical features and pathogenesis of these dermatoses.
• To highlight the importance of recognizing these skin signs for early cancer detection.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of paraneoplastic dermatoses.
• Synthesis of clinical manifestations and pathogenesis.
• Focus on conditions with strong associations to neoplasms.

Main Results:

• Detailed review of acanthosis nigricans maligna, tripe palms, erythema gyratum repens, Bazex syndrome, acquired hypertrichosis lanuginosa, necrolytic migratory erythema, Leser-Trélat sign, and paraneoplastic pemphigus.
• Clinical presentation of each dermatosis discussed.
• Updated insights into the pathogenesis of these conditions provided.

Conclusions:

• Paraneoplastic dermatoses are vital clues to underlying neoplasms.
• Recognition of specific skin conditions can lead to earlier cancer diagnosis.
• Understanding these manifestations improves prognostic assessment and patient management.