Malignant tumours of the scalp resulting from X-ray treatment of tinea capitis

Abstract

Ringworm of the scalp due to Microsporum audouini is one of the common fungal diseases of children and has been a major public health problem in many countries. X-ray epilation was introduced by Sabouraud in 1904 and standardised by Kienbock in 1907 and Adamson in 1909. X-ray epilation was widely used for the next 50 years, until the development of griseofulvin. The long-term results of this irradiation are now appearing. An increasing number of malignancies in the head and neck of persons who were treated during childhood are now being recognised. Seven cases seen during the past 4 years by the author are summarised in the table; 2 are detailed to illustrate the clinical and pathological findings.