Bowen's Disease Health Article

Cancer

—General term for abnormally growing (malignant) cells.

Dermatitis

—Inflammation of the skin that may be due to an allergic reaction.

Melanoma

—Abnormal growth in melanin cells which are most commonly found in the skin or in the eye.

Paget's disease of the breast

—Cancer of breast nipples which occurs in both men and women. Paget's is characterized by oozy and crusty skin inflammation (dermatitis).

Psoriasis

—Common inherited condition that is characterized by reddish, slivery-scaled maculopapules, predominantly on the elbows, knees, scalp, and trunk.

Squamous cell carcinoma

—Type of skin cancer

QUESTIONS TO ASK THE DOCTOR

• How do I know I have Bowen's disease rather than psoriasis, Paget's disease, dermatitis or another skin cancer?
• Is surgical removal of the affected skin area the best treatment?
• What other treatments for Bowen's disease are available other than surgical removal?