Progression of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma in immunosuppressed patients is associated with reduced CD123+ and FOXP3+ cells in the perineoplastic inflammatory infiltrate

Abstract

Perineoplastic inflammation in intraepithelial SCC is pronounced both in immunocompetent patients and OTRs. Inflammation increases further in invasive SCC. OTRs show reduced proportions of FOXP3+ regulatory T cells and CD123+ plasmacytoid dendritic cells. This distinct inflammatory infiltrate may result in increased cutaneous carcinogenesis and more aggressive behaviour of SCC in OTRs.