Cutaneous metastases

Cutaneous metastases are not particularly common compared to metastases to other system organs, but they are an important entity to diagnose correctly given their prognostic implications. Clinically cutaneous metastases can mimic more common dermatologic disorders (e.g. cysts, adnexal tumors, lipomas, cellulitis, vascular tumors, etc.) that may result in diagnosis delay if not considered. An understanding of the clinical spectrum as well as advances in histopathologic assessment of skin metastases is vital to establish the correct diagnosis. Herein we review the clinical, histopathologic, and prognostic salient findings of three different types of cutaneous metastases: carcinomas, melanomas, and sarcomas. We also highlight important immunohistochemical studies and molecular platforms that assist in determining the primary site of origin and/or the line of differentiation.

Duke Scholars

Author Rami Nayef Al-Rohil Pathology