The Management of a Malignant Scalp Tumour of Unknown Origin

Case Study

Authors

  • Jenni Visuri University of Oxford
  • Dan Markeson

Abstract

Primary mucinous carcinoma of the skin is a rare tumour originating from sweat glands and commonly occurs on the scalp. Cutaneous metastases of breast cancer are common and are also commonly found on the scalp. It can be difficult to differentiate between primary mucinous carcinoma and cutaneous metastases of breast cancer due to their similar appearance, histology and immunohistochemistry. In this case study we report the case of a 68 year old woman with a scalp nodule for whom work-up failed to show a primary malignancy elsewhere. We discuss the use of immunohistochemistry to aid differentiation between the two tumour types and potential treatment options for a primary mucinous carcinoma of the skin.

Published

2020-11-22