Detection of Squamous Cell Carcinoma Foci in a Patient with Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa in 18F-FDG PET/CT

Abstract

Dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DEB) is a rare, inherited skin fragility disorder characterized by blister formation in the sublamina densa. DEB is associated with aggressive squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) that has increased risk of metastases and poor prognosis. A 41-year-old woman with DEB underwent 18F-fluoro-2-deoxy-glucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/BT). PET/CT showed increased 18F-FDG uptakes in multifocal cutaneous lesions in both lower extremities. The patient was diagnosed with SCC via skin biopsy from the left lateral lower thigh. Ten months later, PET/CT showed increased FDG uptakes in the primary tumor area as well as the left inguinal and left supraclavicular lymph node regions. 18F-FDG PET/CT seems to be useful for re-staging and planning appropriate therapeutic strategy in DEB-patients with SCC.