Atypical fibroxanthoma is a type of cancer called sarcoma Types of Cancer A cancer is an abnormal growth of cells (usually derived from a single abnormal cell). The cells have lost normal control mechanisms and thus are able to multiply continuously, invade nearby... read more (cancers occurring in bones or soft tissues, such as muscles or blood vessels).
Atypical fibroxanthomas are rare. They usually occur on the head and neck of older adults. They may look like other skin cancers and often appear as pink-red raised areas or bumps that do not heal or may be tender.
Diagnosis of Atypical Fibroxanthoma
Biopsy
Doctors base the diagnosis of atypical fibroxanthoma on the results of a biopsy Biopsy Doctors can identify many skin disorders simply by looking at the skin. A full skin examination includes examination of the scalp, nails, and mucous membranes. Sometimes the doctor uses a hand-held... read more . During this procedure, a small piece of the tumor is removed and examined under a microscope.
Treatment of Atypical Fibroxanthoma
Removal of the tumor
Tumors are surgically removed, or Mohs microscopically controlled surgery Mohs Microscopically Controlled Surgery is done.
Atypical fibroxanthomas do not typically spread (metastasize) to other organs.
Prevention of Atypical Fibroxanthoma
Because atypical fibroxanthoma cancers are related to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light Ultraviolet light Sunlight stimulates vitamin D production, helps control some chronic skin diseases (such as psoriasis), and causes a sense of well-being. However, sunlight can cause skin damage. Damage includes... read more , doctors recommend a number of measures to limit UV light exposure, starting in early childhood:
Avoiding the sun Avoidance Sunburn results from a brief (acute) overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. Overexposure to ultraviolet light causes sunburn. Sunburn causes painful reddened skin and sometimes blisters, fever... read more : For example, seeking shade, minimizing outdoor activities between 10 AM and 4 PM (when the sun’s rays are strongest), and avoiding sunbathing and the use of tanning beds
Wearing protective clothing Clothing Sunburn results from a brief (acute) overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. Overexposure to ultraviolet light causes sunburn. Sunburn causes painful reddened skin and sometimes blisters, fever... read more : For example, long-sleeved shirts, pants, and broad-brimmed hats
Using sunscreen Sunscreens Sunburn results from a brief (acute) overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. Overexposure to ultraviolet light causes sunburn. Sunburn causes painful reddened skin and sometimes blisters, fever... read more : At least sun protection factor (SPF) 30 with UVA and UVB protection used as directed and reapplied every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating but not used to prolong sun exposure