An Australian cohort of 210 patients with multiple invasive squamous cell carcinomas: risk factors and associated increased risk of melanoma and internal malignancies.

BACKGROUND

Patients with a history of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) have a 50% risk of developing subsequent NMSC.(13) Currently there are limited data on the association between multiple squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) and the risk of other cancers, including melanomas.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the risk factors in a cohort of 210 Australians with a history of multiple invasive SCC, focusing on the association between multiple SCC and other cancers.

METHODS

Data were collected from patients of a private practice in south-east Queensland.

RESULTS

A fair complexion and childhood sun exposure were found to be common in this cohort. Approximately half the patients who had their first SCC at or before the age of 30 years subsequently developed a melanoma. There was also an increased risk of internal cancer, prostate cancer being the commonest, followed by bowel and breast cancer.

CONCLUSION

Patients with a history of multiple invasive SCC should be aware of their increased risk of future NMSC and of melanomas. The results of thisstudy suggest such patients and their care providers should also consider an appropriate screening for internal malignancies.