Skin Clues to Hidden Cancers: Recognizing Cutaneous Manifestations of Internal Malignancies
Abstract Introduction: Cutaneous metastases, though relatively uncommon, are significant clinical markers that can indicate the presence of underlying malignancies. Recognizing cutaneous lesions as signs of internal malignancies is crucial, as timely intervention can enhance survival rates. This study aimed to investigate the cutaneous manifestations of internal malignancies. Methods: This descriptive longitudinal study was conducted in the Dermatology Outpatient Department and Oncology Department of Bangladesh Medical College Hospital (BMCH), from July 2023 to December 2023. A total of 30 patients were selected as study subjects by purposive sampling technique as per inclusion and exclusion criteria. Collected data were entered, checked and analyzed with the aid of computer software SPSS version-19. Result: The study found that cutaneous metastases were most common in patients aged 51-60 years, with a male predominance (60%). Skin involvement was the most frequent (46.7%), followed by nails (26.7%) and hair (16.7%). The scalp was the most common site for skin lesions (26.7%), and ulceration was the most prevalent lesion type (33.3%). There was a significant reduction in symptoms such as itching, burning pain, and wetness between the first and second visits, suggesting positive treatment outcomes. The most common malignancies linked to cutaneous metastases were breast cancer (30%), colon cancer (20%), and lung cancer (23.3%). These findings highlight the importance of recognizing skin changes as early indicators of underlying malignancies, which is particularly valuable in resource-limited settings for early detection and treatment. Conclusion: The study underscores the critical role of cutaneous manifestations in the early detection of internal malignancies, particularly in regions with limited healthcare resources. Skin signs can provide an important opportunity for early diagnosis before more advanced diagnostic tools are accessible. The findings highlight the potential for these dermatologic clues to prompt timely interventions and referrals, thereby improving prognosis and treatment outcomes, particularly in underserved populations. Keywords: Cutaneous Lesion, Internal Malignancy, Ulceration, Itching. |