Rare and Aggressive Skin Cancer Successfully Treated in Chennai Tech Professional

Chennai: A rare and aggressive form of skin cancer, dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP), which affects only one to five people per million, was successfully treated in a tech professional at SIMS Hospitals after more than eight years of recurrence and failed surgeries.

The patient had endured three previous surgeries without resolution, with the cancer affecting critical areas including the scalp and skull. The tumour had not only eroded the scalp but also the skull, posing a significant surgical challenge. The cancer’s typical presentation starts as a painless lump or patch and, if untreated, can invade skin, muscle, and even bone.

Senior plastic surgeon Dr. Krishnamoorthy explained that the team had to remove the tumour and reconstruct the patient’s skull. Complex reconstructive techniques were employed including skin grafts, flaps, using a tissue expander, and harvesting tissue from the patient’s thigh to repair the scalp in multiple stages.

Furthermore, a nodule of cancer that had spread to the lung was also surgically removed. Consultant plastic surgeon Dr. Shyamnath Krishna Pandian K. emphasized the high risks involved due to the tumour’s proximity to the brain and critical structures. The patient has recovered well but will require lifelong vigilant monitoring for any recurrence, along with strict sun protection and good scalp care to maintain health.

This successful treatment story highlights advancements in multidisciplinary surgical care for rare cancers, offering hope to patients who face complex tumour challenges.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Readers experiencing symptoms or concerned about cancer risk should consult a qualified healthcare provider.

Reference: Times of India, “Techie with rare skin cancer treated successfully,” August 2025.