Neoplasms of the Skin

Primary neoplastic disease of the skin is common. If caught early, nearly all cases of skin cancer are curable with a complete excision and appropriate margins. Usually, although a biopsy is needed for an accurate histologic diagnosis, a presumptive diagnosis can be made via patient history and examination.

Skin neoplasms account for the largest percentage of malignancies in the world today. They are often divided into melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers. The latter can be further subdivided, with the two largest groups being squamous cell carcinomas and basal cell carcinomas. Although the propensity for these cancers to metastasize is low, they often cause significant local destruction of anatomic structures. Melanomas, on the other hand, have a high propensity to metastasize if not treated promptly, which is why early recognition and treatment are crucial.

There are many other neoplasms of the skin, a few of which will be discussed here. Most importantly, one should understand the risk factors and basic morphology of concerning skin lesions to more accurately determine when dermatologic consultation is warranted.