A Narrative Review of the Factors Impacting Solid Organ Transplant Recipient Participation in Skin Cancer Screening

Solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs) are at a significantly elevated risk of cutaneous malignancy due to the requirement for lifelong immunosuppressive medications. Regular full skin examinations (FSEs) with a specialist clinician are recommended by most guidelines and are critical for early skin cancer detection. However, screening engagement remains variable. This narrative review synthesises the existing literature examining participation in FSEs amongst SOTRs. Seventeen studies were identified and grouped into patient-, clinician- and system-level domains. Across studies, adherence varied between countries and healthcare settings. Patient-level barriers to screening predominantly related to sociodemographic factors. Clinician-level factors that influenced screening practice included guideline awareness and prioritisation of skin cancer risk. At the system level, structured protocols and access to dermatologists improved screening uptake. Identifying and addressing barriers across these domains may improve screening uptake in this at-risk population.