Primary scalp cancer in Singapore

Cancers of the scalp are uncommon. Owing to their unique site they pose problems in surgical treatment. A retrospective study of all scalp cancers notified to the Singapore Cancer Registry over 17 years has shown that squamous cell carcinoma is the most common cancer followed by basal cell carcinoma. Other cancers are sweat gland carcinoma, angiosarcoma, dermatofibrosarcoma protruberans, liposarcoma, fibrosarcoma and malignant lymphoma. Scalp cancers are more common in Chinese and very rare in Indians. There is no difference in the incidence between the sexes. The surgical treatment and reconstructive techniques employed in 52 patients are described. When localised, scalp cancers are managed like other skin cancers but once they invade bone, they become aggressive and are difficult to eradicate. Wide radical excision provides cure and the skull bone if involved should be removed.