Cutaneous markers of internal malignancy – Dermatology MCQ

Which of the following is not a cutaneous marker of internal malignancy?

A. Bullous pemphigoid
B. Acanthosis nigricans
C. Dermatomyositis
D. Erythema chronicum migrans

Correct answer : D. Erythema chronicum migrans

Erythema chronicum migrans is the rash often seen during the early stage of Lyme disease. It is not associated with internal malignancy. Acanthosis nigricans is associated with gastrointestinal malignancies. Dermatomyositis is strongly associated with a wide range of cancers including ovarian, lung and gastrointestinal. Bullous pemphigoid is postulated to have a weak association with internal malignancy.

Other cutaneous markers of internal malignancy: 

• Acquired ichtyosis
• Extramammary Paget disease
• Palmoplantar keratoderma
• Paraneoplastic pemphigus
• Necrolytic migratory erythema
• Erythema gyratum repens
• Sweet disease