Scalp lesions referred for surgical procedures: Single-center 5-year experience in southwestern Poland

Abstract

Background/Aim: The head is a body site with a particular predisposition to skin malignancies due to exposure to UV radiation. The aim of the study was to better elucidate the characteristics of skin lesions that develop on the scalp. Patients and Methods: A retrospective review of all excised and histologically assessed lesions of the scalp at a single dermatosurgery unit throughout a fiveyear period was performed. Demographic features and lesion characteristics were compiled and analyzed. Results: Among 5,601 procedures during the analyzed period, 293 were performed on lesions on the scalp area (5.2%) with a mean patient age of 66±19.7 years. The defects were closed, mainly using primary closure, followed by skin grafts, and, least often, flaps (65.1%, 28.5%, 4.9%, respectively). Two thirds of the excised scalp lesions were histologically confirmed as malignant scalp tumors (mostly basal cell carcinomas followed by squamous cell carcinomas). Conclusion: The vast majority of scalp lesions referred for surgical procedures appeared to be malignant. Therefore, dermatologists should pay special attention to the scalp by examining it thoroughly, as the lesions may be hidden by hair.