The Importance and Challenges of Early Diagnosis of Paraneoplastic Skin Syndromes in Cancer Detection — A Systemic Review

Skin paraneoplastic syndromes (SPNS) are a group of disorders that arise as a consequence of cancer but are not directly related to the tumor mass itself. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of these syndromes, encompassing their pathophysiology, clinical features, diagnostic approaches, differential diagnosis, and management strategies. These syndromes, which include conditions such as Bazex syndrome, acanthosis nigricans, dermatomyositis, and necrolytic migratory erythema, often manifest prior to or concurrently with a cancer diagnosis, serving as potential early warning signs of underlying malignancies. This review delves into the spectrum of SPNS and their associations with specific cancer types. Special emphasis is placed on the critical role of dermatologists and on-cologists in identifying these skin manifestations as potential markers of malignancy. By raising awareness of SPNS, this paper highlights the pivotal importance of prompt recognition and intervention in reducing cancer-related mortality.