Scalp metastasis from an adenocarcinoma of the lung mimicking a cystic mass: case report and literature review

A 67-year-old man visited our plastic surgery clinic complaining of a palpable protruding mass (2.0 × 2.5 cm) in the right occipital region. To establish an appropriate treatment plan for the cystic mass, brain magnetic resonance imaging was performed. A 2.2 cm nodular lesion with peripheral enhancement in the right occipital region of the scalp was confirmed. In addition, two rim-enhancing nodular lesions up to 9 mm with marked perilesional edema in the right frontal lobe were confirmed. The findings suggested metastasis from cancer. After further evaluations, a mass in the right lower lung field was identified as adenocarcinoma of the lung. Histological examination characterized the excised lesion as a cutaneous metastasis from lung adenocarcinoma. This case report shows that a cystic mass, which commonly occurs in the scalp, may indicate lung cancer. In particular, if a cystic mass of the scalp is identified in a person at high risk for lung cancer, appropriate evaluation and urgent treatment should be performed.