# Clinical Aspects of Cutaneous Metastasis from Non-Cutaneous Primary Tumors

## TL;DR

This review discusses the clinical features and importance of identifying skin metastases from internal cancers, emphasizing early diagnosis for better patient outcomes.

## Contribution

The paper provides a comprehensive overview of the clinical spectrum and diagnostic approaches for cutaneous metastases from non-cutaneous tumors.

## Key findings

- Cutaneous metastases often mimic benign skin conditions, leading to delayed diagnosis.
- Breast, lung, and gastrointestinal cancers are the most common sources of solid tumor metastases to the skin.
- Hematologic malignancies present with distinct skin patterns that can resemble inflammatory dermatoses.

## Abstract

Cutaneous metastases represent the spread of internal malignancies to the skin. Although relatively uncommon, their recognition is clinically important, as they may constitute the first visible manifestation of an undiagnosed tumor or indicate advanced disease. The clinical appearance is highly variable, often mimicking benign or inflammatory skin conditions, which may delay correct diagnosis. Early identification is essential because these lesions are usually associated with an unfavorable prognosis and require prompt management. This review provides an overview of the clinical spectrum of cutaneous metastases, discusses the diagnostic tools available, and emphasizes the importance of awareness to facilitate timely recognition and optimize patient care.

Cutaneous metastases (CMs) represent an uncommon but clinically significant manifestation of advanced malignancies, originating from both solid and non-solid cancers. This review explores the clinical characteristics and prognostic implications of CMs. For solid cancers, CMs are most frequently associated with primary malignancies of the breast, lung, and gastrointestinal tract, presenting as nodules, plaques, or ulcerative lesions. In contrast, CMs from non-solid cancers, such as hematologic malignancies, often exhibit distinct patterns, including diffuse infiltrates or erythematous plaques, mimicking inflammatory dermatoses. Clinical features, as well as dermoscopy, may help, but diagnostic confirmation relies on histopathological evaluation and immunohistochemical studies, which are essential for determining the primary source of the malignancy. Clinically, CMs often signify a poor prognosis, necessitating prompt recognition and tailored management to improve patient outcomes. This comprehensive review aims to enhance clinical understanding and awareness of CMs to facilitate early diagnosis and optimized treatment strategies.