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Contribution of dermatologic surgery in war.
J Scott Henning1, Bahar F Firoz
1Brooke Army Medical Center, Ft. Sam, Houston, Texas, USA. Jeffrey.henning@lackland.af.mil
Summary
Dermatologic surgery, including skin cancer and benign tumors, was crucial for deployed service members in Operation Iraqi Freedom. This study highlights the significant role of dermatologic procedures in the combat environment, addressing a gap in published research.
Area of Science:
- Military Medicine
- Dermatology
- Surgical Oncology
Background:
- Dermatology significantly contributes to military readiness.
- No prior reports detailed dermatologic surgery or skin cancer in combat zones.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document the impact of dermatologic surgery, encompassing skin cancer and benign tumors, on deployed military personnel during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of dermatology visits at a combat support hospital in Iraq.
- Data collected over a 6-month period (January 15, 2008 - July 15, 2008).
Main Results:
- 2,696 patients seen; 8% for skin cancer, 129 for actinic keratosis.
- 307 surgeries performed (178 skin cancers, 129 benign lesions).
- Common diagnoses included basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
Conclusions:
- This is the first publication on skin cancer and dermatologic surgery in a combat setting.
- Dermatologic surgery plays a vital role in the combat environment.
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