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Updated: Jan 1, 2026

A 3D Organotypic Melanoma Spheroid Skin Model
Published on: May 18, 2018
Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer with Skull Infiltration and Cranial Involvement
Uwe Wollina1, Thomas Kittner2, Andreas Nowak3
1Department of Dermatology and Allergology, Städtisches Klinikum Dresden, Academic Teaching Hospital, Dresden, Germany.
Background:
Skin cancer is an uncommon cause of skull invasion, dural infiltration and brain parenchyma involvement.
Case Report:
We report on a series of three elderly patients who presented with squamous cell carcinoma of the scalp with skull bone and cerebral invasion and discuss the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
Conclusion:
A major factor of delayed diagnosis of this potentially life-threatening skin cancer feature is patients' neglecting.
Insights
Squamous cell carcinoma of the scalp can invade the skull and brain, posing a serious threat. Delayed diagnosis due to patient neglect is a significant challenge in managing this rare but aggressive skin cancer.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Neurosurgery
- Dermatology
Background:
- Skin cancer rarely invades the skull, dura, or brain parenchyma.
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the scalp is an uncommon but aggressive malignancy.
Observation:
- This case series reports on three elderly patients with advanced scalp SCC.
- Patients presented with invasion into the skull bone and cerebral involvement.
Findings:
- Advanced scalp SCC can infiltrate intracranial structures.
- Diagnostic and therapeutic challenges are significant in these cases.
Implications:
- Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial for managing invasive scalp SCC.
- Patient education and awareness are vital to overcome diagnostic delays.

