Skin cancer Flashcards
What is basal cell carcinoma?
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) of the skin is a common neoplasm, related to exposure to sunlight
Where are BCCs commonly found?
Sun exposed areas e.g. head and neck
What are subtypes of BCC?
Nodular, superficial, pigmented, morphoeic
What are risk factors for BCC?
UV exposure, immunosuppression, x-rays, xeroderma pigmentosum
What does BCC typically look like?
A nodule with telengiectasia and rolled borders
What are risk factors for BCC?
UV exposure, immunosuppression, x-rays, xeroderma pigmentosum
How is BCC diagnosed?
Punch biopsy and histopathology
What is squamous cell carcinoma?
A malignancy of keratinocytes
What is presentation of SCC?
Occurs on skin exposed to sunlight/UV, persistently ulcerated or crusted firm irregular lesion. Hyperkeratotic crust/scale.
What are factors of SCC increased chance of metastasis?
On lip, ear, or non-UV exposed site
> 2cm
immunosuppression
poor differentiation
What are pre-malignant variants of SCC?
Acitinic keratoses: dysplastic intra-epidermal proliferation of keratinocytes
Bowen’s: non-pigmented, slowly enlarging red scaly plaque with flat edge (carcinoma in situ)
What are risk factors for SCC?
Increasing age, fair skin, male, UV exposure, xeroderma pigmentosum, immunosuppression e.g. transplant patients
What are differentials for SCC?
Actinic keratoses, BCC, dermatitis, Bowens
What is melanoma?
A malignancy of melanocytes
Radial phase and vertical phase involving spreading down into lymphatics
What are risk factors for melanoma?
UV exposure and sunburn Fair > 50 dyplastic naevi (little dark moles, caused by UV) Family history Age > 50 Previous melanoma
