Erysipelas carcinomatosum C80.x2

Extensive penetration of the skin with tumor cells through metastasis, especially via the lymph vessels of the lower dermis and subcutis. Occurrence mainly in mamma carcinoma. More rarely in carcinomas of the pancreas, stomach, lung, rectum and ovary. Transition to a cancer en cuirasse possible. S.a. skin metastasis. Analogous clinical pictures may also be obtained in case of loco-regional metastasis of malignant melanoma(Erysipelas melanomatosum).

The aim of treatment is to maintain the best possible quality of life despite an unfavorable prognosis. Individual skin metastases can be excised. Radiotherapy or cytostasis are possible for extensive metastases. The treatment regimen depends on the spread of the metastases and the primary tumor.

Seriously, 1/3 of patients already have distant metastases at the time of manifestation .

1. Hariry H et al (2000) Erysipelas carcinomatosum in tubular adenocarcinoma of the stomach. dermatologist 51: 950-952
2. Krumbholz A et al (2006) Erythematous swelling of the left arm in a 70-year old woman. Erysipelas carcinomatosum in breast carcinoma. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges 4:69-71
3. Lindmaier A et al (1990) 2 cases of melanomatous erysipelas--differential diagnosis and terminology. Dermatologist 41:628-632