Atypical fibroxanthomas are uncommon but usually occur on the head and neck of older people. They may look like other skin cancers (other than melanoma Melanoma Melanoma is a skin cancer that begins in the pigment-producing cells of the skin (melanocytes). Melanomas can begin on normal skin or in existing moles. They may be irregular, flat or raised... read more 
) and often appear as pink-red raised areas or bumps that do not heal and 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.
Prevention of Atypical Fibroxanthoma
Because atypical fibroxanthoma cancers seem to be related to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light (see Overview of Sunlight and Skin Damage Overview of Sunlight and Skin Damage 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 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 bedsWearing 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 hatsUsing 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
Treatment of Atypical Fibroxanthoma
Removal of the tumor
Atypical fibroxanthomas do not typically spread (metastasize) to other organs. Tumors are surgically removed, or Mohs microscopically controlled surgery Mohs Microscopically Controlled Surgery 
is done.
