Alopecia Neoplastica Caused by Desmoplastic Melanoma
November 2003
in “
Australasian Journal of Dermatology
”
Studysummary This report describes the first known case of desmoplastic melanoma presenting as localized alopecia, highlighting the tumor's aggressive behavior and recurrence despite multiple interventions.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
A 50-year-old man experienced localized alopecia on the left frontal scalp for 6 months, which was diagnosed as desmoplastic melanoma with neurotropism upon biopsy. Despite wide excisions, the melanoma extended to the excision margins, infiltrating hair follicles and reducing their number. The patient underwent multiple wide excisions, left eye exenteration, and radiotherapy, but faced multiple recurrences and intracranial involvement of the trigeminal nerve. This case was notable as the first reported instance of desmoplastic melanoma presenting as alopecia.
