Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer with Skull Infiltration and Cranial Involvement
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Updated: Jan 1, 2026
A 3D Organotypic Melanoma Spheroid Skin Model
Published on: May 18, 2018
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.
