Awareness of skin cancer by kidney transplant patients

Background: Skin cancer is the most common malignancy occurring after kidney transplantation. Objective: Our purpose was to identify the skin problems of kidney transplant recipients, the extent of their awareness of skin cancer, and interest in skin cancer screenings. Methods: One hundred twenty-two patients were administered an oral questionnaire during regular follow-up at a renal transplant clinic. Results: The average time from transplantation was 3.1 years. Thirty-nine percent of patients reported skin problems, including warts, fungal infection, and skin cancer. Forty-one percent of patients were unable to recall specific skin cancer education, and 52% expressed an interest in skin cancer screening. Twenty-seven percent of patients had seen a dermatologist since their transplant, but only 14% were followed up regularly by a dermatologist. Conclusion: We believe the need for continuing skin cancer education and early detection and treatment of skin lesions establishes an important role for the dermatologist on the transplant recipient's health care team.