Bleomycin Electrochemotherapy of Dermal Cylindroma as an Alternative Treatment in a Rare Adnexal Neoplasm: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

Background: Brooke–Spiegler syndrome is a rare autosomal dominant disorder characterized by the continuous development of multiple benign skin appendage tumors. It is treated usually by repeated standard surgery. Here, we present a case study where electrochemotherapy (ECT) with bleomycin was used as an effective alternative approach in treating advanced dermal cylindromatosis of the head and neck in a patient with Brooke–Spiegler syndrome. Patients and methods: A 45-year-old woman presented with multiple recurrent dermal cylindroma lesions on her scalp. Previous treatment consisted of several surgical excisions that resulted in psychological deterioration due to the formation of numerous scars and extensive alopecic areas. ECT was offered to provide tumor removal and disease control and to improve the patient’s quality of life. Results: The treatment was well tolerated, and a significant reduction in neoplastic tissue was achieved. Importantly, scalp skin condition significantly improved, regaining a fair follicular density on the margins. Conclusion: This report suggests the feasibility of bleomycin ECT as a less invasive alternative option for controlling multiple scalp cylindroma lesions with cosmetically acceptable results, and improving quality of life.

Keywords

• rare skin tumor
• dermal cylindroma
• electrochemotherapy
• bleomycin
• Brooke–Spiegler syndrome
• adnexal neoplasm