The place of skin cancer screening in heart transplant recipient follow-up protocols: a case series

Abstract

ObjectivesFor solid organ transplant recipients the risk of skin cancer is markedly increased due to immunosuppression. Many studies propose an annual, or morefrequent, skin screening program by a dermatologist. As the number of transplant recipients increases and survival times improve, the need for screeningand rapid response (as required) access is increasing. DesignIn a quality control study we retrospectively examined the medical records of patients participating in an annual screening program between 1997 and2012. A total of 69 medical records were studied and we here describe the program and present the findings. ResultsWe found malignant melanoma in 3 cases. Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma occurred in 16 patients and basal cell carcinoma in 12 patients. Themost frequent skin lesions were actinic keratoses, reported in 20 patients. ConclusionsIncidence rates for all diagnoses were elevated compared to the general population. Awareness of the increased risk for skin malignancies is of importanceto those involved in the care of solid organ transplant recipients. Routines for early discovery of skin tumors are needed both in the form of screening,which can also establish risk group status and give preventive education, and as rapid response access for skin lesion diagnosis and treatment