Rapidly progressing scalp melanoma in an elderly patient

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Oncology
• Geriatrics

Background:

• Scalp melanoma is a rare but aggressive skin cancer.
• Delayed diagnosis can significantly worsen patient outcomes.
• Elderly patients may present with atypical symptoms or comorbidities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of misdiagnosed scalp melanoma in an elderly patient.
• To emphasize the importance of early and accurate diagnosis of skin lesions.
• To highlight the need for frailty assessment in geriatric patients with potential malignancies.

Main Methods:

• Case report.
• Review of clinical presentation, diagnostic process, and management.
• Discussion of diagnostic challenges and therapeutic implications.

Main Results:

• A rapidly progressing scalp lesion initially managed as a chronic wound was ultimately diagnosed as melanoma.
• Delayed diagnosis led to a more complex treatment pathway.
• The patient's frailty status was a significant factor in management decisions.

Conclusions:

• Misdiagnosis of scalp melanoma as a chronic wound can lead to critical delays in care.
• Dermatological evaluation is essential for persistent or unusual scalp lesions.
• Integrating frailty screening into the care of elderly patients is vital for optimal melanoma management.