Successful treatment of recalcitrant dissecting cellulitis of the scalp with complete scalp excision and split-thickness skin graft.

摘要

BACKGROUND. : Dissecting cellulitis of the scalp (DCS) is a therapeutically challenging, chronic, progressive, suppurative disease of the scalp that is of unknown etiology. In addition to causing considerable discomfort and cosmetic disfigurement, long-standing lesions may result in the development of squamous cell carcinoma. Several treatment modalities for DCS have been employed with variable results. OBJECTIVE. : To report the successful treatment of an aggressive, refractory case of DCS with complete scalp excision and split-thickness skin graft. METHODS. : A 25-year-old black male with DCS was treated with complete scalp excision and split-thickness graft from the anterior thighs. RESULTS. : The patient has remained free of disease activity and is satisfied with the cosmetic result. CONCLUSION. : Complete scalp excision with split-thickness skin graft may be curative in patients with DCS and should be considered in recalcitrant cases that fail to respond to medical therapy.