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

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.