What is Bowen's Disease?

Understanding Bowen's Disease

Bowen's disease is the earliest form of skin cancer, often known as squamous cell carcinoma in situ. The in situ reveals that the cancer is in the very early stages and may only have a few abnormal cells. Bowen's disease typically presents as a red scaly patch on the sun exposed areas of the body. However, it can also occur on the non sun exposed areas of the body as well. The lesion will often itch or ooze but in most cases will remain as a reddish patch. It is often mistaken for a fungal infection, psoriasis or eczema. While the lesions are commonly red, they may also appear brown/grayish and may be confused with solar keratosis. Because of the difficulty in diagnosis, it is important that a biopsy be done to confirm the diagnosis.

Risk Factors

Bowen's disease can occur after prolonged exposure to sun and perhaps aging. But all individuals who get old do not develop Bowen's disease. The majority of individuals who do develop Bowen's disease have had a history of prolonged and intense exposure to sun early in life. This risk is much greater if the sun exposure occurs before the 2^nd decade of life. Other risk factors for Bowen's disease include

infection by the Wart virus (HPV 16). The human papilloma virus that is associated with cervical cancer has also been implicated in Bowen's disease. It is believed that the virus is the promoter of the cancer. The majority of individuals who do develop Bowen's cancer are found to have this virus.

in the old days, excessive exposure to arsenic was often associated with development of Bowen's disease. Today, arsenic levels in the environment are well controlled . However, there are still some individuals who do tend to medicate themselves with arsenic containing elixirs and are at a risk for developing Bowen's disease.

Signs & Symptoms