Merkel Cell Carcinoma of the Head in a Young African Albino Woman with HIV/HTLV-1 Coinfection Associated with Multiple Squamous Cell Carcinomas

We report a case of MCC of the head in a young albino woman with a HIV/HTLV-1 coinfection. The patient also suffered from multiple squamous cell carcinomas of the scalp, face, lip, and ears, suggesting an UV carcinogenesis of MCC. The purpose of this case report is to emphasize the relationship between immunosuppression (HIV/HTLV-1 coinfection, chronic sun exposure, ocular-cutaneous albinism, pregnancy) and MCC. It highlights the importance of early diagnosis, dermatological screening with a risk-stratified surveillance, particularly in immunosuppressed albino patients in sub-Saharan Africa, and multidisciplinary management of this biologically unique cutaneous cancer.Case Rep Dermatol 2019;11:113 –122
Source: Case Reports in Dermatology - Category: Dermatology Source Type: research