Publication:

A clinic epidemiological study of cutaneous markers of internal malignancy

Background The skin provides important clues to many systemic diseases. Changes in the skin can be a marker for internal malignancies. If any cutaneous disorder associated with malignancy can be recognized early, it paves way to rapid diagnosis and treatment of the underlying malignancy. we made such an attempt to recognize cutaneous disorders in 40 patients suffering with internal malignancies at government general hospital, Guntur attending dermatology and radiology departments.

Methods Patients with internal malignancy having specific features were included in our study. Biopsy was done in every patient. The present study lasted for 21 months i.e., from January 2008 to September 2009.

Results We found that carcinoma cervix was the most common malignancy in females and bronchogenic carcinoma in males associated with cutaneous markers. The markers observed were pruritus, acquired lymphorroids, para neoplastic pemphigus, acquired icthyosis and disseminated granuloma annulare. Cutaneous markers were observed within 6 months from onset of internal malignancies.

Conclusions Recognition of any para-neoplastic skin disorders should raise suspicion for an internal malignancy which helps in rapid diagnosis and treatment of underlying malignancy.