(See also Overview of Skin Cancer Overview of Skin Cancer Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer and commonly develops in sun-exposed areas of skin. The incidence is highest among outdoor workers, sportsmen, and sunbathers and is inversely related... read more .)
Bowen disease is most common in sun-exposed areas but may arise at any location.
Symptoms and Signs of Bowen Disease
Lesions can be solitary or multiple. They are red-brown and scaly or crusted, with little induration; they frequently resemble a localized thin plaque of psoriasis or dermatitis or a dermatophyte infection.
Diagnosis of Bowen Disease
Biopsy
Bowen disease is often suspected when a rash secondary to a disorder such as psoriasis or atopic dermatitis fails to respond to treatment.
Diagnosis is by biopsy, which shows full-thickness epidermal dysplasia but no dermal involvement.
Treatment of Bowen Disease
Removal or ablation via local methods
Treatment of Bowen disease depends on the lesion’s characteristics and may involve topical chemotherapy, curettage and electrodesiccation, surgical excision, electrocautery, or cryosurgery.
Prevention of Bowen Disease
Because many skin cancers seem to be related to ultraviolet (UV) exposure, a number of measures are recommended to limit exposure.
Sun avoidance: Seeking shade, minimizing outdoor activities between 10 AM and 4 PM (when sun's rays are strongest), and avoiding sunbathing and the use of tanning beds
Use of protective clothing: Long-sleeved shirts, pants, and broad-brimmed hats
Use of sunscreen: At least sun protection factor (SPF) 30 with broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection, used as directed (ie, reapplied every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating); should not be used to prolong sun exposure
