All About Bowen's Disease

Bowen's disease is a skin disorder; the main symptom of which is the formation of a pink or a red surface on the skin which may result in small erosion. The patches usually grow very slow but if left untreated, can lead to a more serious threat of skin cancer. The seriousness of Bowen's disease increases if it is not diagnosed or treated at the correct time. This skin cancer is known as 'squamous cell skin cancer'. 

Symptoms of Bowen's disease:

1. There will be several patches on the skin with distinctly clear edges and showing no sign of healing.
2. The patches are may be red or pink, raised or flat over the skin where it forms.
3. It may spread rapidly over a small localized area
4. It can be itchy (in some cases).

The patches are predominantly found on areas such as the head, neck and in the lower legs. Once they start to develop, you should immediately consult a skin specialist who may take a sample of the skin for diagnosis.

Causes of Bowen's disease:

1. Bowen's disease is caused due to long exposure to the harmful UV rays of the sun. Usage of tanning/sun beds may prove to be problematic.
2. Weak immunity system can cause Bowen's disease and can hamper the entire diagnostic process.
3. Previous history of Radiotherapy treatment.
4. HPV virus that can affect the genitals.

It must be noted that Bowen's disease is not hereditary in nature.

Treatment of Bowen's disease:

1. Cryotherapy: Liquid nitrogen is used to treat the part of the skin which is affected.
2. Surgery: The abnormal skin is operated under the effect of local anesthesia.

Post-treatment follow-up is very important for the entire treatment process to yield results. If you wish to discuss about any specific problem, you can consult a Dermatologist.