Rare cutaneous malignancies of childhood

Abstract

Malignant melanoma and mycosis fungoides (cutaneous T cell lymphoma) are rare malignancies in childhood. However, both are potentially fatal tumors that may be cured if detected early. The incidence of melanomas in adolescents has increased in the last 10 years. This makes it imperative that high-risk children be identified for preventive measures including sun protection as well as serial skin examinations. This review highlights the important risk factors for melanoma and comments on which risk-reducing interventions pediatricians should institute. Mycosis fungoides is a cutaneous malignancy usually found in middle-aged adults. Recently, it has been asserted that this entity is underreported in children. This occurs because it may frequently mimic other more common disorders, such as eczema. Thus, lesions clinically suspicious for mycosis fungoides, especially those that have failed chronic eczema therapies, warrant a skin biopsy for definitive diagnosis.