[Are skin tumors on the increase?]

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Oncology
• Epidemiology

Context:

• The skin is a frequent site for cancer development.
• Epithelial skin tumors like basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are common.
• Metastatic melanoma carries a poor prognosis, contrasting with the generally good outlook for early-stage epithelial skin cancers.

Purpose:

• To present current epidemiologic data on malignant skin tumors.
• To highlight the increasing incidence of common skin cancers.
• To discuss the varying prognoses and risk factors associated with different skin malignancies.

Summary:

• The incidence of skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, has significantly increased, largely attributed to heightened UV radiation exposure.
• While early detection offers a favorable prognosis for epithelial skin tumors, metastatic melanoma presents a significant challenge.
• Rare skin tumors such as cutaneous lymphomas and Kaposi sarcoma are also discussed, with a particular note on the latter's association with HIV infection.

Impact:

• Provides a comprehensive overview of skin cancer epidemiology.
• Emphasizes the public health importance of UV protection and early detection strategies.
• Informs clinicians and researchers about current trends in skin malignancy.