Dermal pleomorphic sarcoma of the scalp – Report of two cases

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Neoplasias of the UV-exposed head-and-neck area of the elderly include non-melanoma skin cancers of various origin. CASE REPORT: We report two cases of rapid growing exophytic scalp tumors on chronic sun-damaged skin, in one case with a tendency of bleeding. The tumours were removed by wide surgical excision with 3D margin control, and the resulting defect was covered by a meshed split skin graft. Histopathologic examination disclosed a dermal pleomorphic sarcoma in both cases. The staging was unremarkable in both patients. CONCLUSIONS: Sarcomatous tumours of the scalp should be completely excised with a 3D margin control. Dermal pleomorphic sarcoma is a more aggressive variant compared to atypical fibroxanthoma despite some similarities.