Outcomes following management of squamous cell carcinoma of the scalp : a retrospective series of 235 patients treated at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre

Vanessa Estall, Angela Allen, Angela Webb, Mathias Bressel, Chris McCormack, John Spillane

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

16 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Background: Squamous cell carcinoma of the scalp is a common clinical problem in an aging population. Despite its high incidence, little has been documented regarding treatment or outcomes. Methods: We retrospectively analysed 235 cases treated with curative intent at Peter MaCallum Cancer Centre between 1998 and 2010. The cohort was analysed for its characteristics, management, survival and prognostic factors. Results: The patients were primarily male (88%) with a median age of 79 years (range 53–98 years). There was a high proportion of immunosuppressed patients (29%) and stage T2 (48%) tumours. Management included surgery (45%), radiotherapy (28%) and surgery and adjuvant radiotherapy (26%). Median follow up from treatment was 4.5 years. Estimated 5-year overall survival (OS), disease-specific survival and progression-free survival (PFS) were 59, 94 and 51%, respectively. The 5-year cumulative incidence of local and regional relapse was 11 and 7%, respectively. There were four patients who developed distant metastases and died of their disease. Statistically significant prognostic factors identified for poor outcomes for OS and PFS were T2 stage (hazard ratio [1.7 and 2.1) and immunosuppression (HR 3.3 and 3.4). Conclusions: We conclude the presence of immunosuppression and T2 stage is prognostic for survival. Further research to establish treatment principles is warranted.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)e207-e215
Number of pages9
JournalAustralasian Journal of Dermatology
Volume58
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2017

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