Review of Scalp Alopecia Due to a Clinically Unapparent or Minimally Apparent Neoplasm (SACUMAN)

The document from 2006 reviews a rare condition called SACUMAN, where neoplastic cells cause scalp alopecia without clear clinical signs. Metastatic breast carcinoma is the most common neoplasm associated with this condition, but other carcinomas, lymphomas, and benign neoplasms can also be causes. The mechanisms may involve cytokine and interleukin production leading to fibroplasia and hair follicle destruction. SACUMAN is often misdiagnosed as inflammatory alopecia, potentially leading to an underestimation of its prevalence. The review highlights the need for scalp biopsies for diagnosis and calls for more research to understand the cytokine profiles involved and to distinguish SACUMAN from inflammatory alopecia.