Malignant melanoma following scalp irradiation for tinea capitis

X-Rays were discovered by Roentgen in 1895 and were subsequently used in the treatment of many ailments. Numerous benign skin conditions including eczema and psoriasis have historically been treated with X-rays. During the 1930s and 1940s radiotherapy was introduced as an effective treatment for scalp ringworm (tinea capitis). Over the past few years radio-induced malignancies have been reported, with basal cell carcinoma predominating. We report a very rare case of a 64-year-old mate with a 9.5 mm Breslow thickness melanoma occurring over 50 years following irradiation. This case highlights the presence of another risk factor in the development of melanoma. With the increasing age of this irradiated population we may continue to see further evidence of the link between melanoma and skin irradiation. (C) 2007 British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.