Management of Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Scalp in Kidney Transplant Recipients

Organ transplant recipients are at a significantly higher risk of developing skin cancer compared to the general population, particularly cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Approximately 3-8% of these carcinomas are located on the scalp. Scalp reconstruction is particularly challenging, especially for large excisions, due to the thickness of the scalp, the inelastic aponeurosis of the galea, and the integrity of the hair-bearing scalp. Additionally, in organ transplant recipients, the presence of numerous comorbidities and the increased risk of infection due to immunosuppressive therapy make management more complex. Based on our experience and the existing literature, we aim to describe possible reconstruction methods and discuss the combined management of medical and immunosuppressive therapy.

We present our experience with seven kidney transplant patients who underwent excision of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma with a diameter larger than 3 cm. The crane technique involves three key steps. First, the tumor is excised with wide margins of disease-free tissue. Next, a pericranial flap is rotated and positioned to cover the exposed cranial bone. Finally, a bilayer dermal substitute is applied to create a microenvironment that supports skin graft implantation.

The crane technique was used for six patients. In one case, an O-Z rotation flap was used. All patients modified their immunosuppressive therapy, with those receiving antiproliferative therapy switching everolimus after surgery.

When combined with a post-operative modification of the immunosuppressive regimen, the crane technique could be considered a feasible, safe, and effective approach to managing large cSCC of the scalp in fragile patients.