Scalp metastases - an unusual Presentation of non-small cell lung cancer prognosis of cutaneous metastases in the current era

• Published in: Journal of cancer research and therapeutics Vol. 9; no. 1; pp. 145 - 147
• Main Authors: Rachakonda, Krishna, George, Mathew, Peek, R
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: India Medknow Publications 01-01-2013; Medknow Publications and Media Pvt. Ltd; Medknow Publications & Media Pvt. Ltd
• Subjects: Aged; Cancer; Cancer therapies; Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung - pathology; Care and treatment; Case studies; Chemotherapy; Diagnosis; DNA-Binding Proteins - metabolism; Head and Neck Neoplasms - diagnosis; Head and Neck Neoplasms - secondary; Health aspects; Humans; Immunohistochemistry; Lung - pathology; Lung cancer; Lung cancer, Non-small cell; Lung Neoplasms - pathology; Medical treatment; Metastasis; Patient outcomes; Prognosis; Risk factors; Scalp - pathology; Skin Neoplasms - diagnosis; Skin Neoplasms - secondary; Tomography, X-Ray Computed; Transcription Factors; India; Non small cell lung cancer; Scalp; Cutaneous; Metastases
• ISSN: 0973-1482; 1998-4138
• DOI: 10.4103/0973-1482.110375

We report a case of metastatic lung cancer presenting as scalp metastases. Immunohistochemistry and radiological investigations helped in making the diagnosis. We also report better survival as seen in our present case using newer chemotherapeutic agents. The report emphasizes the need to look carefully for skin lesions as they provide easily accessible tissue for histopathology and also aid in proper staging as they can be missed out on routine radiological investigations. The case also reflects improvement in cancer care and outcomes in recent times.