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Benign skin neoplasms: types and risks of degeneration. Skin growths, photo and name. How to remove common skin growths at home The reasons may be

Benign skin neoplasms: types and risks of degeneration. Skin growths, photo and name. How to remove common skin growths at home The reasons may be

Content

There are different types of skin growths. This pathology has a large classification, and each type in it differs in its symptoms, features and prognosis. The variety of nosological forms of cutaneous oncology is explained by the fact that the source of the tumor is different types of cells. The most dangerous are malignant neoplasms, but this is determined only after diagnosis. Taking into account the type of tumors, different methods of treatment are used today.

What is a neoplasm on the skin

The skin covering the human body has a complex structure. Its functions are to support heat exchange, protection from external influences, participation in secretory processes. The skin consists of three main layers:

Epidermis. This is the outer layer formed by stratified squamous epithelium. Its surface consists of keratinized cells with keratin in the composition. The function of the epidermis is to protect against chemical agents and irritants.
Dermis. The middle layer is 1-3 mm thick. It is formed by the fibers of the mesh and connective tissue, which determines the ability of the skin to compress and stretch.
Subcutaneous adipose tissue. It is a deep layer of skin formed from connective tissue. It contains many groups of fat cells.

Skin growths can occur in each layer. In medicine, they are understood as tumors consisting of clusters of identical cells localized in a specific area. These formations can be benign or malignant. Regardless of the type, they arise against the background of abnormal proliferation of skin cells. Oncology is engaged in the study of neoplasms.

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The main classification of neoplasms divides them into types depending on the ability to metastasize to other organs, lead to complications and death. Taking these criteria into account, there are:

Benign. They do not directly harm a person's life, but at large sizes they can limit the normal functioning of organs, squeeze nerve endings, cause pain and disrupt blood circulation.
Precancerous conditions. This is a borderline form, which over time can develop into a malignant one. It develops as a result of tissue modification under the influence of hereditary or current causes.
Malignant. These are aggressive types of neoplasms that are difficult to diagnose in the early stages. They develop due to the intensive growth of immature atypical cells. Skin neoplasms grow rapidly, often cause metastases, and, if vital organs are damaged, lead to death.

Causes

One of the provoking factors for the appearance of neoplasms is the action of ultraviolet radiation. Scientific research confirms the role of sunlight in the cancerous transformation of the epithelium. Risk factors are also alcohol abuse, smoking, viruses, radiation. The common cause of malignancy is mutation, i.e. degeneration of normal cells. When the immune system does not recognize the transformation, the pathology progresses and gives metastases.

Some people have a genetic predisposition to skin growths. In others, they are noted as a result:

the course of serious diseases leading to pathological processes;
a defect in the immune system;
taking strong drugs, including testosterone, immunosuppressants, alkylating agents;
radiation exposure to the body;
chronic skin conditions such as eczema;
unknown factors, such as acquired immunodeficiency;
lack of a balanced diet;
receiving mechanical or thermal injuries.

Benign skin neoplasms

If neoplasms grow slowly or remain unchanged throughout life, then they are called benign. Their difference is that the skin cells in the focus retain their original functions. Benign - do not penetrate into nearby tissues, but can only squeeze them. Their structure is similar to the neighboring cells from which they originated. Such formations respond well to hardware and surgical treatment. Relapses are rare, but there is a risk of becoming malignant.

Lipoma

It is also called a wen, because it develops from adipose tissue. This type is very common. A neoplasm occurs on almost any part of the body, but rarely occurs on the abdomen and legs. Lipoma does not cause much discomfort to a person, because it is not accompanied by pain. The bump only spoils the aesthetic appearance of the skin. Signs of a lipoma:

the presence of a seal 0.5-15 cm in size under the skin;
high mobility of the neoplasm, its slow growth;
no pain even with mechanical stress;
with constant rubbing of the wen on clothing, inflammation and suppuration may develop.

Papilloma

This neoplasm is a wart in the form of a nodule or papilla. The origin is viral. The pathology is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). It is activated against the background of weakened immunity, autonomic disorders, stress. Externally, papilloma is different. These are growths of light, gray or dark brown color. This group is divided into several types:

Flat warts. The most common type. Warts rise above the skin only by 1-2 mm.
Genital warts. They resemble cauliflower in appearance. More often appear on the genitals, around the anus, on the oral mucosa.
Common warts. Outwardly similar to flat, but rise above the skin by 2-3 mm. The surface of the warts is rough.

Hemangioma

It develops from an accumulation of cells on the inner surface of blood vessels. Most hemangiomas are solitary, but sometimes they appear in groups. The formation chooses the scalp, eyelids, forehead, cheeks, nose and neck as localization sites. There are several types of hemangiomas:

Capillary. Located on the surface of the skin, it can reach large sizes. Its color ranges from bluish black to red. Growth takes place to the sides.
Cavernous. This is a hemangioma in the deep layers of the skin. It is a limited subcutaneous formation of a nodular structure. Color - from normal skin tone to bluish.
Combined. Combines the previous two forms.
Mixed. Vascular formation on the skin, affecting the surrounding tissues, more often connective tissue.

Lymphangioma

Formed from the walls of the lymphatic vessels. It occurs in children even during development in the womb. Lymphangioma is more often diagnosed before the age of 3 years. The formation itself is a thin-walled cavity of 1-5 mm. There are several types of lymphangioma:

Cystic. Consists of isolated or communicating cysts. It is more often noted on the neck in the area of the lymph nodes.
Cavernous. These are small formations hidden by intact skin. Detected only by touch.
Capillary. Such a neoplasm appears on the face. The boundaries are blurred, the dimensions are small. A frequent site of localization of a neoplasm on the skin of the face is near the upper lip or on the cheeks.

Dermatofibroma

Another name is simply fibroma. Women of young and mature age are more susceptible to the mild type of this tumor. There is also a hard fibroma. Size - no more than 3 cm. Externally, it is a deeply welded knot. It protrudes above the surface of the epidermis, has a gray, brown or blue-black color. The fibroma is smooth to the touch, but it can also be warty. Depending on the form, the symptoms of this tumor are as follows:

Solid fibroma. It has a low level of mobility, it can be single or multiple. It is noted on various parts of the body and limbs.
Soft fibroma. This is a kind of pouch on a leg of pink or brown color. It is more often localized in the armpits, around the mammary glands and genitals.

Pigmented nevus

Moles or nevi are acquired and congenital. In structure, these are accumulations of cells with an excess of melanin. Moles vary in color, shape, surface texture. The danger of some of them lies in the possible degeneration into melanoma. The risk of a pigmented nevus is especially high. Its main features and characteristics:

it is a flat brown or gray knot;
its surface is dry and uneven;
a pigmented nevus is removed with surgery.

Keratoacanthoma

This is the name of tumor-like hyperkeratosis. It is a benign neoplasm of the skin of epidermal origin, which tends to malignant transformation. Externally, a keratoacanthoma is an oval or round node. It is wide at the base, and matches the color of the skin. Other characteristics of this tumor:

in the center it is filled with keratinized cells;
has raised edges that form a kind of roller;
sometimes the color of the tumor changes to bluish red or pink;
the diameter reaches 2-3 cm.

Lentigo

These are benign age spots. They appear as a result of the accumulation of melanin in the chromatophores of the dermis and proliferative disorders in the basal layer of the epidermis. Outwardly, lentigo looks like a cluster of brown spots with a clear outline and a rounded shape. Pathology occurs in adolescents and the elderly. The main signs of lentigo:

round shape of spots, their size does not exceed 2 cm;
the spots are not grouped, each has its own contours;
ulcers, peeling and itching are absent;
spots are formed on open parts of the body, on the genitals and back - rarely.

Atheroma

It is a cyst of the sebaceous gland. Frequent places of localization of pathology are parts of the body where there is a high concentration of sebaceous glands, such as:

back;
groin area;
scalp.

Outwardly, atheroma is a dense formation with clear boundaries. On palpation, it is mobile and elastic. Atheroma does not bring discomfort to a person. The condition worsens with inflammation of the neoplasm on the skin. In this case, suppuration, swelling and redness of the tissues are noted. Against this background, the temperature may rise and soreness of atheroma may appear. It breaks through on its own with the release of pus. With such a cyst, there is a risk of developing liposarcoma - a malignant formation.

This group includes neoplasms that are more or less likely to transform into malignant ones. They are on the verge of degenerating into various forms of cancer. This happens under certain unfavorable conditions. Doctors do not identify an explicit criterion or sign of rebirth. Because of this, it is difficult to clearly define the boundary between precancerous and early malignant tumors. Timely detection of these borderline conditions plays an important role in the prevention of skin cancer.

Pigmented xeroderma

With this disease, age spots turn into warty growths due to too high sensitivity of the skin to ultraviolet radiation. Xeroderma is a rare pathology, more often associated with heredity. Risk group - children born from closely related relationships. The first signs of the disease appear in childhood. Their list includes:

thinning of the skin, cracking and increased dryness;
swelling, redness and blistering at the site of ultraviolet radiation;
preservation after inflammation of age spots, similar to freckles;
ophthalmic diseases;
deterioration of the condition of the teeth;
stunting;
papillomas and warts in the late stage of the disease.

Giant condyloma Buschke-Levenshtein

This neoplasia is progressive and viral in nature. It is caused by a rare type of human papillomavirus. The outward resemblance to carcinoma (skin cancer) causes frequent confusion between these diseases. The tumor itself is a carcinoma-like genital warts. More often it is localized on the glans penis and the coronal sulcus. In women, condyloma is located on the clitoris, labia, in the anus. The symptoms are as follows:

the appearance of small formations resembling papillomas;
the rapid increase in their size;
fusion of warts, the formation of a single area - a giant warts;
its base is wide, the surface is covered with villi;
small warts are observed around the formation.

Bowen's disease

This is one of the rare ailments. The disease affects the mucous membranes and skin. It has a high risk of developing invasive cancer, especially in people over 70 years old. Bowen disease symptoms:

a red, round patch with jagged edges that appears on any part of the body;
its overgrowth into a copper-red plaque, forming an extensive surface of inflammation;
the appearance of yellow or white scales that completely cover the weeping area of the epidermis;
change in the structure of the plaque to warty;
ulcers that indicate the development of cancer.

Keir's disease

Another rare disease is non-invasive cancer of the mucous membranes. Affects the head of the penis, the inside of the foreskin. Rarely affects the cervix, oral cavity, vulva and perianal area. The main symptoms of Keir's disease:

a bright red plaque with a velvety shiny surface;
the epidermis in the affected area is moist;
the spot has clear boundaries;
single lesion;
sometimes there is a coating of white color, which is easy to remove;
pain observed when injuring the affected area;
bleeding with mechanical damage;
purulent exudate when a bacterial infection is attached.

Senile keratoma

This is a precancerous condition that is characteristic of the elderly. This is the reason for this name. The risk is high over the age of 50 and a concomitant tendency to dry out the skin. The disease is an overgrowth of the upper layer of the epidermis against the background of keratinization of some cells. With senile keratoma, the following symptoms are observed:

a spot of yellowish or brownish tint;
the appearance of several spots, they are rarely single;
gradual pigmentation and color change to red or brown;
papules and multiple depressions are formed;
a plaque with a diameter of 6 cm in the late stage of the disease;
covering the spots with keratinized scales, after the removal of which bleeding develops.

Cutaneous horn

Neoplasms of this species are entirely composed of the prickly layer of the epidermis. The name is due to the appearance of the growth. It looks like an animal's horn. Signs of the development of such a pathology:

overgrowth of epidermal cells of a conical shape of brown or yellow color and dense structure;
slow growth of the horn and only in length;
the appearance of a red rim around the horn.

Malignant neoplasms

If pathological formations grow and spread rapidly, cause metastases in organs distant from the focus and penetrate into the surrounding tissues, then they are called malignant. Cell transfer occurs through the lymph and blood. The difference between malignant tumors is the complete loss of control over cell division in the affected area by the body. The cells in it can no longer perform their functions.

Melanoma

The most common type of malignant tumor. Nevi or moles can become malignant after injury or excess ultraviolet irradiation. This becomes the cause of the development of melanoma. The following symptoms indicate it:

the mole is rapidly increasing in size;
then it changes color - it darkens or brightens;
the mole takes on a different shape, which is not accompanied by symmetry;
the pigment merges with neighboring tissues, has no clear boundaries;
ulcers form at the site of the mole, hairs fall out.

Epithelioma

The name of the disease is due to the fact that it affects the upper layer of the skin - the epithelium. There are many clinical variants of epithelioma, but any of its forms has one clinical sign. These are nodules, the volume of which varies from a few millimeters to 5 cm. The self-shredding form is distinguished by the appearance of a small ulcerative defect. Malerba epithelioma develops from the cells of the sebaceous glands. This pathology is typical for children. The tumor can be located on:

scalp;
face;
ears;
on the shoulders, hands.

Squamous cell carcinoma

It is a malignant tumor that develops from the mucous membranes and skin. The disease is characterized by aggressiveness and rapid development. Cancer affects the lymph nodes, penetrates into neighboring organs, disrupts their structure and function. Among all species, it is about 25%. Such cancer can be suspected by a number of signs, such as:

domed knot with a diameter of 2-3 cm;
dense, cartilaginous structure of the tumor;
inactivity of education;
bleeding with mild trauma;
the form of a tumor in the form of cauliflower.

Basalioma

A tumor in this disease develops due to the accumulation of epithelial cells. The risk is higher in older adults. Basalioma is not accompanied by metastases, rarely leads to death. This does not apply to its squamous cell form. Basal cell carcinoma can be recognized by the following signs:

surface formations - solitary, with a dense structure;
there is a small depression inside each spot;
the tumor rises above the surrounding skin;
over time, slight itching appears;
when the skin is stretched, nodules of white, gray or yellow are noticeable;
overgrowth pain;
crusts on the surface of spots, when removed, bleeding opens.

Fibrosarcoma

This is a rare type of malignant tumor. It can appear in almost everyone, regardless of age, gender, etc. Fibrosarcoma affects the tendons and connective tissue of muscles. Its development is indicated by:

the appearance of a dense subcutaneous node;
bluish brown color of the inflammation focus;
no pain;
apathy, weakness;
drastic weight loss;
feverish condition.

Liposarcoma

It affects soft tissues, more often in men over 40 years of age with benign tumors. The risk group also includes people who have contact with asbestos or take hormones. Liposarcoma has several types:

Poorly differentiated. They resemble fatty compounds that are actively growing.
Myxoid. This is a borderline form in which cells look normal but can start to grow at any time.
Pleomorphic. A rare form that affects only the limbs.
Dedifferentiated. Aggressive, causes many metastases.
Mixed. Includes signs of several forms of liposarcoma.

Kaposi's sarcoma

The highest risk of developing this disease is in HIV-infected patients. Kaposi's sarcoma is triggered by the herpes simplex virus type 8. More dangerous than the formations themselves are disorders of the digestive and respiratory systems. The following signs indicate the development of this disease:

blue, red, purple or pink spots that do not brighten when pressed;
a blistering rash similar to lichen planus;
gradual growth of pathological formations;
drying out of the affected area, its peeling;
pain when squeezing the spot.

Diagnostics

The main method for determining whether a tumor is precancerous or malignant is differential diagnosis. It involves the following procedures:

Digital epiluminescent dermoscopy. Has 95% sensitivity. It consists in instrumental screening of education using dermatoscopes.
Intracutant analysis using the SIAscope technique. The method consists in examining skin lesions without a scalpel. The results are displayed on the monitor screen, where you can see the structure of the tumor, the concentration of hemoglobin and melanin.
Histological examination. During a biopsy, tumor material is taken, after which it is examined. This allows you to differentiate malignant pathology from benign.

Treatment of neoplasms

In most cases, treatment consists in removing the formation, and with partial excision of healthy tissue. This is done in a variety of ways. In addition to radical surgical methods, there are less invasive ones. If the cancer is inoperable, chemotherapy and radiation therapy are used. Benign formations are removed by cryodestruction, electrocoagulation, radio waves. In a malignant course due to multiple metastases, there is a high probability of death from internal bleeding, autointoxication and multiple organ failure.

Chemotherapy

It consists in the use of drugs that inhibit tumor growth and cause their death. Oncology uses about 60 types of anticancer agents. They are administered intravenously in certain courses. The disadvantage of chemotherapy is the development of side effects in almost all patients, including nausea, vomiting, osteoporosis, leukemia, baldness, anemia. The advantages of the procedure: the ability to remotely influence metastases and remove cancer cells after radical surgical treatment.

Radiation therapy

Almost 80% of patients with malignant tumors receive radiation therapy. It is an effect of ionizing radiation: corpuscular and photonic. They differ in the degree of energy distribution over the tumor tissues. Radiation therapy can be remote, interstitial and contact. It is often combined with chemotherapy. The main disadvantage of radiation therapy is considered to be a large number of adverse reactions. The advantages of this treatment method:

reducing the risk of metastasis;
elimination of pain at an advanced stage;
destruction of abnormal cells after surgery;
cure for cancer at an early stage.

Laser removal

The effectiveness of the use of a laser in the treatment of neoplasms is due to the ability to focus the beam exactly on the pathological focus. In the course of the beam, tissue necrosis is observed. The laser method is especially effective when combined with the intake of cytostatics. The lack of a not fully understood mechanism of laser action on biological objects, but this does not prevent medicine from widely using this method. It has several undeniable advantages:

the ability to remove several defects in one session;
bloodlessness;
short duration of the procedure;
disinfecting effect;
contactlessness, which eliminates the risk of secondary infection.

Electrocoagulation

This method is used to remove moles, warts, rosacea, papillomas, and calluses. The essence of the procedure is to cauterize soft tissues with an electric current. Its advantage is the ability to regulate the depth of exposure, thereby removing pathological cell proliferation in different layers of the epidermis. Soreness can be considered a disadvantage, but with pre-treatment with anesthetics, this symptom is minimized.

Cryodestruction

This procedure consists in freezing the pathological focus, which leads to its destruction. The method is used only for benign tumors. Of the minuses, it is noted that sometimes one procedure is not enough to destroy the entire focus. In addition, the tumor is difficult to remove if large vessels are located nearby. Cryodestruction has several advantages:

lack of rough scars;
freezing hemostatic effect;
the possibility of complete destruction of pathological tissue;
painlessness.

Radio wave method

Treatment of benign lesions with radio waves is considered one of the most adequate methods. Its advantage lies in its scientific validity. Evidence for the effectiveness of radio wave therapy has been established experimentally. As a result of the action of the waves, the tissues move apart. It turns out the thinnest incision in which the vessels do not bleed and the skin does not suffer from overheating. Another plus - during the operation, accidentally trapped microbes immediately die.

The radio wave method is effective for both single and group warts, condylomas, papillomas. The disadvantage of the procedure is its high cost. In addition, large moles and warts cannot be removed this way. Among the advantages are:

short duration of the operation;
no bleeding;
keeping healthy tissue intact;
painlessness;
short rehabilitation.

Prophylaxis

Any disease is easier to prevent than to cure. Prevention of the appearance of pathological formations on the skin is as follows:

removal of benign neoplasms that arouse suspicion, but only after consulting a specialist;
the use of special sunscreen products, especially for people prone to the formation of age spots or moles;
reducing the consumption of smoked meats, animal fats, sausages and other products with a large amount of stabilizers in the composition;
limiting exposure to the sun in the summer from 11 to 15 hours;
exclusion of contact with chemically active and carcinogenic substances.

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Attention! The information presented in the article is for informational purposes only. The materials of the article do not call for self-treatment. Only a qualified doctor can diagnose and give recommendations for treatment, based on the individual characteristics of a particular patient.

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Skin neoplasms - types, diagnosis and removal

It's no secret that the skin includes three layers (epidermis, dermis and subcutaneous fat), the main task of which is to protect us from the harmful effects of our environment. Also, the skin is involved in respiration, thermoregulation, metabolic and many other processes. And such an important organ of our body can be affected by neoplasms (neoplasias) at any of the levels.

Neoplasms on the skin are a process of abnormal cell division, while the cells are not mature, which means they are no longer able to perform their functions. This can happen for many reasons, but the most common is skin injury, as a result of which the cells are forced to renew themselves too actively. And this, in turn, leads to uncontrolled division. And most often these injuries are associated with a burn.

If you find any neoplasm, the best solution would be to contact a specialist who will order you an examination to determine whether it is dangerous or not. If the neoplasm is benign, then most experts recommend removal in order to reduce the risks of damage. Since any damage, in turn, can lead to the transformation of the tumor from benign to malignant.

Types of neoplasms on the skin

If any new tumor appears on the surface of the skin, do not under any circumstances self-medicate. You may not only not get rid of neoplasias, but also make yourself worse.

Benign neoplasms

This type of tumor is a nodule that has grown from connective or fibrous tissue. According to external signs, it is a formation of pink or flesh-colored, which has clear outlines. The fibroma does not cause discomfort or pain, and is also slow in growth. Most often it affects the soft tissues of the limbs or trunk. And they are formed in people of any age and gender. Almost never degenerates into malignant neoplasia

The reasons for the appearance of fibroids are not fully understood, but the most obvious pattern is genetic inheritance.

This type of tumor does not pose a threat to human health and life, so their treatment is not necessary. Only those fibroids that are subject to frequent friction or spoil the appearance of a person are subject to removal. It is removed surgically under local anesthesia using a laser. If the fibroma has reached a large size, then surgical excision is performed.

Papilloma

It is a neoplasia that looks like a growth on the skin. The size can reach from 1 to 7 mm, but sometimes it can reach up to 2 cm. Localized on the neck, armpits, face, abdomen, back, oral mucosa, larynx, trachea.

Papillomas appear on the skin due to the human papillomavirus, or HPV. There are two strains of this virus: oncogenic and non-oncogenic. If an oncogenic strain of this virus is found in the blood of a person, then there is a high probability that the formation will degenerate into a malignant one. You can get infected with this virus through sexual (70% probability) and household contacts. For women, infection with an oncogenic HPV strain is also fraught with the development of cervical cancer.

Treatment of papilloma with drugs is not possible, only with the help of removal. However, the risk of re-proliferation of papillomas increases if a person has a weakened immune system or an exhausting lifestyle.

Obligatory for removal are those papillomas that are localized in traumatic places. The signal to contact a specialist is the unexpected appearance or strong proliferation of papilloma.

Lipoma (wen)

It is a benign tumor consisting of mature fat cells (hence the name wen). Most often it is subcutaneous and only in 2% of cases it is located in deep soft tissues. Lipoma is a painless formation, soft to the touch and mobile relative to the surface of the skin. Most often, patients are disturbed because of their large size or for cosmetic reasons.

The causes of lipoma are still unknown. However, there is an opinion that adipose tissue occurs due to a lack of enzyme proteins in the body. And they can also occur due to clogging with slags.

Treatment is performed only surgically. If the lipoma has reached a large size, then removal is performed under general anesthesia. Surgeries almost always contribute to the patient's complete recovery.

If the tumor does not cause any discomfort and there is no pronounced cosmetic defect, then removal is not necessary. But it should be remembered that folk remedies for wen are useless.

Moles and birthmarks

These are formations on the skin, which can be either congenital or acquired. Also, moles can be of different colors: brown, red, black, etc. They are formed due to the fact that the cells of the skin overflow with pigment and accumulate in one place. They can form on all parts of the human body.

Most moles are completely harmless.

To reduce sensitivity and to eliminate the negative effects of solar radiation, it is recommended to cover moles with a bandage or plaster.

However, there is a possibility that a mole can degenerate into melanoma (skin cancer) under the influence of negative factors, such as trauma, ultraviolet radiation, etc. Therefore, if a mole is located in a traumatic place, it is best to remove it with a laser, liquid nitrogen, electric current or surgically.

Before removing a mole, be sure to consult with a specialist.

This is a type of tumor that forms due to a blockage of the sebaceous glands. It is a liquid-filled capsule under the skin. A distinctive feature is the odor emanating from neoplasia. But it may not be felt if a person with this type of neoplasm often takes a shower.

Atheroma occurs most often on parts of the body where there is hair.

There are times when an infection enters the capsule and the atheroma begins to become inflamed. In addition to subcutaneous fat, pus also appears in its capsule. Most often, such a capsule bursts itself and no longer requires treatment.

The reasons for the appearance can be different: internal and external. For example, atheroma can appear on the earlobe due to careless ear piercing. There may also be a lack of personal hygiene. And the internal one can be attributed to the violation of metabolic processes.

In case of internal blockage of the sebaceous glands, it is necessary to consult a specialist and undergo the necessary treatment in order to reduce the risks of atheroma appearing again.

Treatment most often involves surgical excision of the capsule. If there is a hole in the atheroma through which the infection can penetrate (or has already penetrated), then in such cases the contents are first removed, the inflammation is removed, and then the atheroma capsule is excised.

Keratoacanthoma

Keratoacanthoma is a benign neoplasia that tends to become malignant (in 6% of patients it degenerates into skin cancer). Usually localized on the face, limbs and trunk. The tumor grows rapidly, but it can also spontaneously disappear, leaving behind scars.

Due to the risk of degeneration into a malignant tumor, the tumor requires close observation, and in some cases there are indications for removal.

The reasons for the appearance are not fully known, but about 50% of patients have human papillomavirus in their blood. Also, the risk of a tumor increases in people who smoke and in people in contact with chemical carcinogens (tar, soot, polycyclic hydrocarbons).

Hemangioma is a benign tumor that consists of vascular tissue cells. It is most often diagnosed in newborn babies. In adults, hemangioma rarely appears, reaches a couple of centimeters and does not cause any discomfort. As a rule, the disease goes away on its own in children aged 5-10 years.

The reasons are not known, but it is believed that the tumor occurs in those children whose mother had acute respiratory infections or sore throat during pregnancy. And the causes of occurrence in adults are not known at all.

The biggest danger is damage to the skin, and therefore the introduction of infection and suppuration.

As a rule, hemangioma cannot be treated. The only way to get rid is surgery. Mandatory for removal are hemangiomas located on the face or rapidly growing.

Precancerous neoplasms

These formations on the skin, which over time or under certain conditions, can degenerate into malignant.

Pigmented xeroderma

It develops with increased sensitivity of the skin to solar radiation, due to which the skin loses its ability to regenerate. The disease manifests itself at the age of 2-3 years and is constantly progressing. This disease can be recognized by a large number of freckles, which transform into warty growths. This disease is congenital. In order to reduce the risk of cancerous growths, it is necessary to constantly protect the skin from solar radiation and it is necessary to provide dispensary observation of an oncologist, dermatologist, and, if necessary, an ophthalmologist and neuropathologist.

The statistics are not encouraging: 2/3 of patients with xeroderma die before reaching the age of 15.

Precancerous growths of old skin

This type of neoplasm refers mainly to elderly people, but one should not exclude the possibility of their formation at an earlier age.

Senile keratoma

This is a single or multiple benign skin formation, prone to malignancy. It is a rounded plaque with layers of keratinized skin. Possible malignant transformation with the development of skin cancer. Degeneration of a tumor into a malignant one in 9-15% of cases.

Most often occurs in elderly people who have reached 50 years of age. Some argue that this type of tumor is more common in men.

Treatment of keratoma is possible in different ways: electrocoagulation, laser removal, liquid nitrogen, radio wave removal and surgical (if malignant transformation is suspected or if large).

Keir's disease

It is an intraepithelial non-invasive cancer of the mucous membranes of the genital organs. Sometimes (in 30% of cases) it can degenerate into squamous cell skin cancer. Keir's disease is a predominantly male disease.

It is diagnosed mainly in elderly and middle-aged men who have not undergone circumcision of the foreskin of the penis. The main role of the appearance of the disease is played by carcinogenic factors, poor personal hygiene, viruses and genital trauma.

Treatment is performed surgically. For invasive tumor growth, chemotherapy is given.

Bowen's disease

This tumor is an intraepidermal neoplasm that can degenerate into skin cancer. It is a bright red plaque with uneven contours and pronounced peeling.

The most important threat of this disease is its transformation into squamous cell skin cancer.

For small lesions, surgical removal of the tumor is the best treatment. If removal is not possible, then X-ray therapy is used.

Cutaneous (senile) horn

This disease is very rare in older people. It belongs to rare dermatological diseases. In appearance, it really resembles a horn, has a dense structure and a cylindrical shape. Doesn't hurt. Sometimes it is a harbinger of skin cancer (cutaneous horn malignancy is 5%). Most often, the cutaneous horn occurs on the surface of the face, neck, scalp and eyelids.

The reason is a metabolic disorder, which leads to an accelerated proliferation of epidermal cells.

The most effective method of its treatment is removal by means of electric current, laser, radio wave method, surgical method and cryodestruction with liquid nitrogen.

When removing a benign cutaneous horn, preventive measures are required to avoid relapse of the disease.

You should not try to remove the horn yourself, as this can cause it to transform into a malignant tumor.

Malignant neoplasms of the skin

These are tumors whose cells have lost the ability to perform their own functions at the early stages of development. Often they metastasize and form tumors over the entire surface of the body's skin.

The main sign that a mole has changed from a benign one to a malignant one is its modification. Changes in pigmentation, rapid size change, bleeding, etc.

It is strictly forbidden to injure such moles. If such a tumor is present on the body, you should immediately contact a specialist

Melanoma

It is a malignant tumor that develops from cells that produce melanin. This disease is very rarely treatable and deaths in melanoma are very high.

The reasons for the appearance are altered cell DNA, which was provoked by such factors as: light skin; an abundance of moles on the skin; excessive sun exposure; heredity.

Prevention of melanoma is by limiting exposure to the sun and using special sunscreens.

Melanoma treatment is mainly surgical. In the early stages, the tumor is removed along with a section of healthy skin around. Additionally, radiation and chemotherapy are performed.

Basalioma

Malignant tumor formed from cells of the epidermis. This tumor practically does not metastasize. It occurs mainly in people who have reached the age of 40. The main factor contributing to the appearance of basal cell carcinoma is prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, contact with toxic substances and carcinogens, and constant injury to the skin.

Despite the fact that basal cell carcinoma is a type of cancer, it has a benign course. The biggest complication is that as it grows, it touches and destroys the surrounding tissues. Death occurs when the tumor affects the bones, ears, eyes, lining of the brain, etc.

The most common treatment is surgical removal. It is also removed with liquid nitrogen or a laser. They also carry out radiation or chemotherapy.

Kaposi's sarcoma (angioendothelioma of the skin)

This type of malignant tumor is multiple skin lesions that develop from the endothelium of the lymphatic and blood vessels passing through it. This type of tumor develops mainly (40-60%) in people with HIV, most often in men.

The reasons for the development of Kaposi's sarcoma are not fully known.

The main treatment for this disease is highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). This is a combination of drugs that interferes with the reproductive cycle of HIV. If the patient's immunity is high, then Kaposi's sarcoma may be borderline in nature. As soon as immunity decreases, the tumor begins to grow again. The same type of treatment is a surgical method, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy.

Forecast and prevention of skin neoplasms

Nowadays, with modern methods of treating benign and precancerous tumors, the prognosis is very positive - complete cure, no recurrence and degeneration into malignant tumors. In malignant tumors, the prognosis is not so favorable. For the possibility of a complete cure, certain conditions are necessary, and if these conditions exist, then it will take a lot of effort.

At the moment, there are no uniform measures for anyone and everyone, observing which you will be safe. However, there are a number of measures that can help reduce the risk of any tumors forming on the skin's surface:

Keep an eye on the condition of your skin. Do not lose sight of the slightest change or the emergence of something new. If you find a new tumor that did not exist before, contact your oncologist or dermatologist and follow their recommendations.
Do not self-medicate. Remove folk remedies only after consulting a doctor, making sure that the method you want to resort to is safe for you. And also the doctor must confirm the good quality of the neoplasm.
Avoid overexposure to sunlight and ultraviolet radiation on your skin. Avoid sunburn using a special cream with a protection factor of at least 30. Especially if your skin has increased pigmentation, an abundance of moles, or just very light skin.
Avoid skin contact with carcinogenic and chemically active substances.
Avoid casual sex to minimize the risk of contracting HPV, HIV, and other sexually transmitted viruses.
Reduce your intake of foods that can trigger the onset of cancer. These products include: smoked meats, animal fats, sausages and other meat products with a large amount of food stabilizers.

Remember, do not neglect your own health. It is better to think in advance about the condition of your skin and take all the necessary measures in order to minimize the risks of any neoplasm appearing on the surface of your skin.

- benign or malignant tumor lesions of the skin as a result of pathological proliferation of tissue cells. Benign neoplasms include warts, moles, papillomas, lipomas, angiomas, adenomas, etc. Malignant ones - melanoma, sarcoma, epithelioma. A special group is made up of precancerous skin tumors: leukoplakia, cutaneous horn, senile keratoma, etc. Most of the skin neoplasms should be removed, since in case of injury or insolation, there is a high probability of their malignant degeneration.

General information

Skin neoplasms is a pathological growth of the dermis, in which the size of cells or their number increases; pathologically altered cells of the dermis form into a limited tumor. The number of new cells in a healthy body is equal to the number of dead cells, but under the influence of unfavorable factors, uncontrolled multiplication of cells begins, cells divide before they reach maturity, as a result of which they are not able to perform their original functions. With malignant neoplasms of the skin, it is sometimes very difficult to differentiate from which layer of the dermis the tumor originated.

There are a lot of factors that can trigger the process of uncontrolled cell division, but the main predisposing factor for skin neoplasms is frequent skin injuries, as a result of which the cells have to regenerate quite actively and, as a result, control over division is lost. All types of radiation, including X-ray and solar radiation, provoke skin neoplasms. Hereditary predisposition and fair skin with an abundance of moles in combination with other risk factors almost always lead to benign skin neoplasms, which can later become malignant and transform into a cancerous tumor.

Despite the fact that benign skin neoplasms do not directly harm the patient's life, they, being huge in size, can disrupt the normal functioning of various organs, squeezing nerve endings - cause pain, and squeezing blood vessels - disrupt blood circulation in a specific part of the body.

Constant exposure to the skin of aggressive substances, skin infections of a bacterial and viral nature, as well as chronic skin diseases such as eczema, increase the likelihood of skin neoplasms. Skin neoplasms resulting from metastases of cancer cells from other organs and skin neoplasms in individuals who are not at risk are rarely diagnosed. All skin neoplasms are divided into three groups: benign skin neoplasms, precancerous skin conditions, and malignant neoplasms.

Benign skin neoplasms

The cells of benign skin neoplasms, despite the loss of control over division, can be differentiated; they also preserve their original functions to a greater extent. Such tumors grow slowly, squeeze nearby tissues, but never sink into them.

Moles and nevi are limited hyperpigmented areas of the skin due to uneven accumulation of melanocytes, most of them are acquired neoplasms on the skin due to excessive exposure to the open rays of the sun. About half of malignant melanomas develop from melantocytes in moles and birthmarks. Therefore, if the number of moles and their size increases, the intensity of the color increases, then it is necessary to consult an oncodermatologist or dermatologist.

Precancerous neoplasms of the skin

Pigmented xeroderma, the pathogenesis of which is the increased sensitivity of the skin to various radiation energy, a congenital disease, due to disturbances in the enzyme system, the dermis loses its regenerative properties. This pathology can be suspected by the large number of freckles in children of the first year of life on the areas of the skin that are most often exposed to sun exposure. Freckles quickly transform into warty growths. Dispensary observation of children with a genetic predisposition and constant protection of the skin from solar radiation can reduce the likelihood of cancerous skin growths. With such a neoplasm of the skin as pigmented xeroderma, the prognosis is poor, since in almost all cases, cell and squamous cell carcinoma develops. Mortality in the age group under 20 is very high.

Precancerous neoplasms of the skin of old age

Bowen's disease or intraepidermal cancer is clinically manifested by neoplasms on the skin of a maculo-nodular nature, in the form of papules and plaques, which merge to form extensive surfaces covered with papillomatous outgrowths. The incidence is high among people of mature and old age of both sexes. The predisposing factors are the presence of warts caused by the human papillomavirus; due to the pronounced polymorphism of the cells of this neoplasm of the skin, Bowen's disease ends in undifferentiated cancer with the development of metastases in other organs and tissues.

Keir's disease occurs in the elderly; clinically, this skin neoplasm looks like a bright red velvety knot on the genitals, the course of the disease is long, over time, the knot can ulcerate and become covered with papillomatous outgrowths. Such skin neoplasms are usually painless, but due to their localization, they are often injured, which causes bleeding and pain. Unlike Bowen's disease, this skin neoplasm has a benign course and is less malignant.

Senile keratoma is a neoplasm on the skin from its epithelial layers, which occurs in elderly people. The initial manifestations look like limited areas of solitary or multiple hyperkeratosis, which later become dense round plaques up to one and a half centimeters in diameter and eventually become covered with dense crusts. Such neoplasms of the skin are localized mainly in open areas, are characterized by slow growth and, in very rare cases, become malignant.

A neoplasm of the skin, such as a cutaneous horn, is found in elderly people and develops in open areas, mainly in places subject to frequent friction and squeezing. The primary cutaneous horn occurs on unchanged skin, while the secondary is preceded by various skin neoplasms, tuberculosis, lupus erythematosus and actinic keratosis. After formation, an adult tumor looks like a cone-shaped horny formation, the length of which is several times the diameter of the tumor base. It is localized on the skin, the red border of the lips, the course of the tumor is long, malignancy occurs quite often.

Malignant neoplasms of the skin account for 7-10% of all malignant tumors. It affects people of both sexes, but people of mature age are more susceptible. They differ from benign tumors in that the cells of the dermis are difficult to differentiate already at the initial stages of the disease, they do not fulfill their functions, they are able to infect nearby organs and tissues and metastasize along the blood and lymphatic vessels, causing tumors throughout the body.

Melanoma is the most malignant of all skin neoplasms, the presence of congenital and acquired age spots increases the risk of melanoma, as it arises from melantocytes - pigment cells of the skin. Middle-aged women with blond hair and blue eyes are most susceptible to melanoma. A neoplasm on the skin is localized mainly on the lower and upper extremities, the pathogenesis of malignancy of moles and age spots is not fully understood, but their trauma, attempts to remove moles and spots with aggressive chemicals, cuts and insolation contribute to malignancy.

The main symptoms that indicate the malignancy of such neoplasms on the skin as age spots and moles are changes in the pigmentation of the nevus, a sharp increase in size, frequent bleeding and ulceration. That is, any previously nonspecific manifestations of a mole speak of its degeneration. And, despite its small size, the tumor quickly spreads to neighboring areas in the form of satellite nodules and metastasizes first to regional lymph nodes, and then to internal organs. Trauma can lead to premature degeneration into cancer, since even a biopsy for cytological examination is carried out in the presence of erosions and ulcers, so as not to activate the oncological process.

Epitheliomas all skin neoplasms are called epithelial cells and are diagnosed in 50-60% of all skin cancers. Epitheliomas occur in areas not affected by other skin neoplasms. Initially, there is a small nodule of pinkish-yellow shades, which grows over the years, but its size is not significant - up to 1-1.5 cm in diameter, so it remains unnoticed. The activation of the process is indicated by the presence of a yellowish-gray crust, which eventually covers the epithelioma. A roller around the neoplasm on the skin, consisting of cartilaginous seals with a shiny sheen, is an unfavorable diagnostic sign. In the future, ulceration and bleeding are observed, the tumor quickly metastasizes to regional lymph nodes and other organs.

Kaposi's sarcoma or angioreticulosis is more common in AIDS patients, but the classic form of sarcoma and skin neoplasms in immunocompromised patients are clinically and histologically identical. Men are more prone to this type of skin cancer; Kaposi's sarcoma is localized mainly on the lower extremities. Initially, purple, less often purple spots appear without clear outlines, later on this background there appear dense rounded nodules of a bluish-brown color with a diameter of up to 2 cm.The nodules are prone to fusion and ulceration, in patients with HIV infection, the disease becomes aggressive, sometimes with lightning lesions lymph nodes and metastasis throughout the body.

Poorly differentiated forms of skin cancer

Despite their small size, such skin neoplasms are extremely dangerous, the cells lose their ability to keratinization and pronounced cellular atypism is observed. Such oncological diseases of the skin are manifested by minor changes, usually the tumor is no more than a pea in size, but the more atypism is expressed, and the inability to differentiate the type of cells, the more unfavorable the prognosis for these skin neoplasms. Endophytic tumor growth leads to invasion into the blood vessels and to bleeding, through the blood vessels cancer cells disseminate throughout the body, causing numerous metastases. Typically, these forms of cancer are fatal from cachexia, bleeding, or autointoxication several years after the diagnosis.

Diagnostics of skin neoplasms

Self-diagnosis and regular dispensary examinations are of great importance in early diagnosis. The doctor's attentiveness during a visual examination allows diagnosing pathological conditions and skin neoplasms and directing the patient for further examination.

Attentiveness to your health and to the health of your loved ones makes it possible to notice changes in moles, pigmentation and birthmarks in time. And, if skin changes occur without objective reasons, then you should be examined by a dermatologist or oncodermatologist, where, on the basis of visual examination, histological studies and studies of the general condition of the body, the tumor-like nature of skin neoplasms will be confirmed or excluded.

Treatment and prevention

There is no specific prophylaxis of cancer; preventive measures include the removal of moles and the removal of warts at the initial stage of their occurrence, especially if there are many moles. Persons with a genetic predisposition to oncological diseases should avoid sun exposure, carefully approach the place of choice of a workplace and avoid contact with carcinogenic substances, excluding foods that can provoke an oncological process from the diet can significantly reduce the likelihood of oncological diseases.

Treatment of skin neoplasms most often consists in removing the affected area with partial excision of healthy tissue. Laser removal gives a lower percentage of relapses, since, in addition to removal, the wound surface is cauterized and does not allow further dissemination of tumor cells. Electrocoagulation and cryodestruction of benign skin neoplasms can be used, as well as a radio wave method of removal.

In the event that skin neoplasms are in the stage of inoperable cancer, radiation and chemotherapy are used. But if the neoplasm is initially malignant, the prognosis is always unfavorable, since the tumor, metastasizing, causes deep lesions of the internal organs, although the manifestations on the skin may be insignificant. The probability of death is quite high, patients die from autointoxication, massive internal bleeding, multiple organ failure and cachexia.

If the skin neoplasm has a benign course or a precancerous condition, then timely surgical intervention almost completely eliminates the possibility of relapses and corrects cosmetic defects in appearance.

Clinically, the term "neoplasm" means a local overgrowth of any tissue of the body. On the skin, they are represented by primary and secondary tumors, nevi and hemoderma.

In dermatological practice, tumors are divided into benign and malignant. A detailed photo and a detailed description of each of them will be given below.

The study of skin neoplasms is still ongoing. The exact reasons for their occurrence have not been established, but scientists put forward several theories on this score.

The provoking factors can be:

Types of neoplasms on the skin

Neoplasms on the skin by their origin can be divided into primary (those that are formed from the skin tissue itself) and secondary (those that metastasize into the dermis and epidermis from foci of other localization). The latter also include hemoderma. They arise due to the pathological proliferation of malignant cells of the hematopoietic system.

There is a division of neoplasms into benign, precancerous (precancerous) and malignant (cancer itself). This classification allows you to determine the method of treatment and life prognosis for the patient.

Nevi should be distinguished from skin tumors. These are benign neoplasms that belong to skin malformations.

Malignant neoplasms

Neoplasms on the skin of a malignant nature in the Russian Federation in the structure of oncological morbidity today amount to 9.8% and 13.7% in men and women, respectively. Persons living in areas with high photoinsolation and having fair skin are especially susceptible to the disease. The number of new cases of skin cancer has increased by a third over the past ten years.

Types of malignant neoplasms on the skin, their structure.

Malignant skin tumors include:

basal cell carcinoma;
Kaposi's sarcoma;
liposarcoma;
squamous cell carcinoma;
melanoma, etc.

Basalioma

One of the most common epithelial skin tumors. It is formed from atypical cells of the basal layer of the epidermis, from where it got its name. The tumor is characterized by prolonged progression, peripheral growth, during which the surrounding tissues are destroyed. Basal cell carcinoma is not prone to metastasis.

This pathology develops mainly in the elderly and the elderly, is localized mainly on the face, neck and head (its scalp). Sometimes basal cell carcinoma is referred to as precancer. under the influence of some factors, it degenerates into a metatypical cancer.

The first manifestation of an emerging tumor is a dense hemispherical nodule that does not rise above the skin. Its color usually coincides with the color of the skin or differs slightly (a slight pink tint).

At the initial stage, the patient does not make complaints. Over the course of several years, the papule grows, reaching 1 or 2 cm in diameter. Its center gradually collapses, bleeding and crusting.

Under the latter, an erosion or ulcer with a narrow ridge along the edges is found, which, over time, scar and grows along the periphery.

Basalioma reaches a size of 10 centimeters or more. The once pink papule turns either into a flat plaque with peeling, or a node that rises noticeably above the surface of the skin, or a deep ulcer that destroys the underlying tissue (up to the bone).

Liposarcoma

This is a neoplasm on the skin of fat cells of mesenchymal origin. In the photos below, you can see what size these tumors reach. Descriptions in clinical reference books speak of liposarcoma as a mass that tends to appear on the buttocks, thighs, and retroperitoneal tissue. It is more common in men over 40.

Initially, a swelling appears, then a node. There are no subjective sensations yet. On palpation, the nodule is dense, elastic, mobile.

Subsequently, the tumor grows, turns red, and inflammatory processes begin. Large liposarcoma can compress the nerves and blood vessels and even grow in them, causing tissue trophic disorders and pain.

Kaposi's sarcoma

This is a systemic multifocal disease of vascular origin with a predominant lesion of the skin, lymphatic system and internal organs. It refers to tumors of an endothelial nature and develops mainly in individuals with severe immunosuppression.

In terms of morphology, skin foci of sarcoma are quite diverse. They come in the form of spots, nodules, infiltrative plaques, etc.

There are several types of sarcoma:

Classic (European).
Endemic (African).
Epidemic (with HIV).
Immunosuppressive (immunodeficiency caused by medications and therapeutic manipulations).

The first type is observed in the elderly and the elderly, has a favorable course. Elements grow for a long time, tens of years in the proximal direction and do not give the patient unpleasant sensations. The formations are most often localized on the lower extremities, are bluish-red spots up to 5 cm in diameter with smooth edges, resemble hematomas.

In the process of growth, they are transformed into nodules, merge. Large nodes darken and ultimately ulcerate. Edema occurs along the edges of the elements, caused by stagnation of lymph in the lymphatic bed.

The African type is difficult, affecting the young. A fulminant course of the disease is often observed. African Kaposi's sarcoma manifests itself in several types of formations - from nodes to lymphadenopathy.

The most malignant type of elements of this type of sarcoma is considered "flowering" (growth in the form of vegetation - in appearance it resembles a cauliflower). It is characterized by deep lesions of the dermis, subcutaneous tissue and underlying tissues down to the bone.

With HIV infection, a tumor can be localized literally anywhere in the body, even affecting internal organs. The most common sites are the mouth, stomach and duodenum. The current is heavy. The immunosuppressive type is similar in its manifestation to the HIV-associated one.

Squamous cell carcinoma

Malignant tumor from the epithelium. Formed from atypical keratinocytes that proliferate randomly. The process begins in the epidermis, gradually moving into deeper layers. The tumor is characterized by a tendency to metastatic process.

Squamous cell carcinoma occurs 10 times less often than basal cell carcinoma. They are more often affected by white-skinned men, whose place of residence is a sunny warm climate.

The localization of spinocellular epithelioma is different. The most favorite place for the formation of squamous cell carcinoma is the border of the transition of the mucous membrane into the skin. These areas include the lips and genitals.

At the initial stage of cancer development, an infiltrate occurs with a towering hyperkeratotic (rough) surface. The color of the formation is usually gray or yellow-brown.

Complaints at first, as with basal cell carcinoma, are absent. In the process of growth, the tumor can reach a size of up to 1 cm. At this point, a dense knot is already felt and continues to grow. Eventually, the carcinoma approaches the size of a walnut.

The tumor grows in two directions - above or deep into the tissues. The latter is usually accompanied by the formation of an ulcer, which affects not only the dermis and epidermis, but also reaches the bone and muscle tissue.

An ulcer in squamous cell carcinoma does not heal. The patient suffers from excruciating pain in the place of its formation. In the future, a violation of general well-being and infectious complications associated with immunosuppressive processes accompanying any oncopathology join the complaints.

Melanoma

This is a tumor of neuroectodermal origin. It consists of malignant melanocytes. The main provoking factor is considered to be UV radiation.

Melanoma develops from both a pre-existing nevus (birthmark) and clean skin.

Signs of malignancy include:

asymmetry;
fuzzy edges;
uneven color;
diameter over 6 mm;
the evolution of the age spot (any changes in the mole - sudden growth, discoloration, etc.) is the most typical sign!

Benign neoplasms

Neoplasms on the skin belonging to the category of benign, as seen in the photo and by their description, are not prone to rapid growth, metastasis and relapse after removal.

Differences between benign and malignant moles.

These tumors include:

atheroma;
hemangioma;
lymphangioma;
warts;
moles (nevi);
fibroids, etc.

The structure of a lipoma (a benign tumor, popularly referred to as a wen)

View	Description
Atheroma	The defeat of the sebaceous gland in the form of cystic growth. The place of localization is the face. A raised formation, indistinguishable from normal skin in color, is tightly soldered to it at one point. The contours are clear. Palpation of atheroma is painless.
Hemangioma	Neoplasm of vascular origin, refers to childhood tumors. It can be either an independent disease or a manifestation of another pathology. The course depends on the patient's age, localization, size and depth to which the hemangioma has grown. Frequent placement - head, face, neck, but other localization is also possible. The first manifestation is a red nodule (papule) up to 5 mm in diameter. Of the complaints - bleeding when accidentally touched, sometimes - dysfunction of the organ where the tumor is located.
Lymphangioma	There are two possible development options - congenital malformation or consequences of impaired lymph flow. The tumor can be located anywhere, but more often it is the oral cavity, neck, upper limbs. Capillary lymphangiomas are multiple vesicles with a yellowish transparent liquid inside. The same tumors that have arisen as a result of impaired lymph circulation look like plaques or spots, the diameter of which is slowly increasing.
Lipoma	Tumor of adipose tissue. Most often they have a nodal shape. The course is asymptomatic. It is a painless pale pink neoplasm on the pedicle. Doughy consistency. The borders are fuzzy.
Seborrheic warts	Also called "senile". They arise as a result of impaired differentiation of cells in the basal layer of the epidermis. Appearance - nodules or plaques that rise above the skin. The surface is bumpy. The shape is usually round or oval. The color of the wart ranges from yellow-brown to black.
Birthmarks	Or nevi. They are a developmental defect and consist of unchanged melanocytes. The color of the rash is characteristic - from light brown to black, which is associated with a different amount of melanin (dark pigment) in the cells. More often, moles have a smooth surface, sometimes they rise above the skin.
Fibroma	Fibroma is a tumor that forms from connective tissue. Dense to the touch. Reaches large sizes. Possible malignancy (transition to malignant formation) of the tumor.

Neoplasms on the skin (photo and description are presented above) of a benign nature, despite their relatively safe nature, sometimes can still turn into precancerous and even cancer.

Precancerous conditions

Precancrosis is a pathological condition of any tissue of the body, which, with varying degrees of probability, can contribute to the onset of a malignant process.

The following diseases are considered skin precancerous:

Bowen's disease;
Paget's disease, etc.

Bowen's disease is an intraepidermal cancer that tends to become squamous. It is an inflammatory disease of a chronic nature, which is associated with an excessive proliferation of atypical keratinocytes. Occurs in older people.

The tumor has invasive growth, it grows not only in the epidermis, but also in deeper tissues. It can be located on any part of the skin and mucous membranes, but more often on the trunk.

Elements have the appearance of spots of pink shade with indistinct rounded edges. Under them there is an infiltrate, due to which the formations rise slightly. They are rough to the touch, covered with scales. When sloughing off the latter, an erosive, bleeding surface opens.

Paget's disease is a metastatic adenocarcinoma. The source of growth, as in Buen's disease, is located intraepidermally. The typical location is the mammary glands, most precisely the nipple zone and its areola.

The growth of the tumor is infiltrating (it grows to the underlying tissues). Clinically manifests itself as a one-sided itchy plaque with clear contours in women over 40 years of age. The surface is covered with scales and crusts. The element increases in size, begins to metastasize. The outcome is breast cancer.

Diagnostics

Skin neoplasms, photos and descriptions of which were presented above, are diagnosed using general principles. These include the mandatory collection of anamnesis (patient complaints, clinical manifestations of the disease), examination of the patient, a thorough visual examination of the formations and the analysis of data from clinical and instrumental examination methods (MRI, radiography).

The main thing in making the final diagnosis is the histological method. It is a microscopic examination of an area of pathologically altered tissue in order to identify atypical cells.

Treatment of skin neoplasms

The methods of treating skin neoplasms include medical, radiation and surgical. The latter is radical (i.e. allows you to get rid of the disease as completely as possible).

Skin neoplasms are medically treated with antibiotic therapy (photos and detailed descriptions of drugs can be found in clinical reference books), NSAIDs, opioid analgesics and hemostatic drugs. This method is used as a symptomatic treatment, it makes it possible to alleviate the patient's condition, to somewhat improve the quality of life.

The surgical method is based on the elimination of the neoplasm. The goal of treatment is to finally get rid of the disease, to prevent relapses.

Radiation therapy is more often performed for malignant processes, especially in cases where surgical resolution is impossible. Also, the goal is to prevent the resumption of tumor growth and its metastases.

Removal of skin lesions

Ways to remove skin lesions are:

In order not to miss the moment when neoplasms on the skin begin to threaten life, you need to understand what you have to deal with. Having studied the photos and descriptions of common pathologies, one can assume the source of the disease and contact a specialist in a timely manner.

A view of skin lesions

How to distinguish a dangerous mole from a safe one:

Characteristics of benign skin neoplasms:

Skin neoplasms are the result of intense division of cells in the epidermis and are benign and malignant in nature, capable of developing into skin cancer.
Moles, papillomas, nevi and many other skin neoplasms are present on the skin of the vast majority of people.

Some growths do not pose a threat to health, but there are also those that, under the influence of negative factors, change and develop into malignant tumors. In order not to miss the moment when a harmless mole begins to transform into skin cancer, it is necessary to independently monitor the condition of all skin growths and undergo regular medical examinations.

Types of skin growths

All neoplasms developing from skin cells are classified into:

1. Benign, not posing a serious threat, but capable of delivering physical and mental discomfort when widely localized or located on areas of the body not covered by clothing.

2. Malignant, which is essentially a cancerous tumor. These growths grow rapidly, affect the deep layers of the dermis and spread metastases throughout the body.

3. Borderline, potentially capable of transforming into a malignant form.

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Let's consider the features of these skin growths in more detail.

Benign:

It is formed in the course of blockage of the sebaceous gland and looks like a thickened "ball" rising above the skin, which does not cause discomfort. Atheromas can form anywhere on the body, including the genital area; the neoplasm can be either single or multiple. In case of suppuration and inflammation, the atheroma can be removed by surgical excision or laser.

If the work of the ducts of the sebaceous glands is seriously impaired, then without special treatment of the underlying problem, they will be re-clogged and, as a result, atheromas will appear again and again, usually in the same place.

Vascular neoplasm, which can be localized both in the upper and deep layers of the skin, as well as internal organs and affect the vascular network. Has a burgundy or bluish-black shade, can reach large sizes. For treatment, laser removal of hemangiomas, sclerotherapy or a surgical method is used.

Hemangiomas are most common on the body, but sometimes they can develop on the scalp, face, neck, upper and lower extremities. The neoplasm itself is not dangerous, but it is very easy to injure it. Hemangioma injuries are accompanied by profuse bleeding.

This type of tumor develops on the vessels of the lymphatic system, is characterized by slow growth. The disease occurs even during the intrauterine development of the fetus. Under the influence of unfavorable factors, the neoplasm, as a rule, increases significantly in size, which becomes an indication for its surgical removal.

Lymphangioma predominantly affects children and is easily diagnosed within the first year of a child's life. The tumor itself is not dangerous, but its tendency to spontaneous and almost instantaneous growth can harm the internal organs of the child and even threaten his life.

Lipoma or wen is a benign tumor that develops under the skin from adipose tissue cells. A neoplasm can occur on almost any part of the body where, in one way or another, subcutaneous fat is present. The neoplasm is felt under the skin as a small movable lump; the tumor is absolutely painless.

5. Papillomas and warts

Warts and papillomas are benign neoplasms that develop from epithelial tissue. They have a similar viral origin, but different places of formation and development. The reason for the appearance of papillomas and warts is the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is very widespread in the world.

Nevi and moles are formed from melanocytes - cells containing the main coloring pigment of the body. As a rule, most of these neoplasms are not hazardous to health. However, their size and location can cause some discomfort, especially if they are located on the face or exposed parts of the body.

Fibroma is a benign neoplasm that develops from connective tissue cells. The tumor has the form of spherical nodules protruding above the skin with a smooth or warty surface. The color of fibroids can be bluish-black, gray, brown. More detailed information on fibromas can be obtained in the article "Skin fibroma. Description, symptoms, consequences. Laser removal".

The neoplasm grows slowly, usually without causing much discomfort to the patient. Often, fibroma does not pose a danger to life, however, when exposed to unfavorable external factors, as well as various carcinogens, it can develop into a malignant form - fibrosarcoma. The safest and most effective method for removing fibroids is laser therapy.

Neurofibroma is a benign neoplasm that develops from nerve cells. Most often, the tumor is located under the skin, in the area of subcutaneous fat. However, in some cases, it can also affect soft tissues, as well as the roots of the spinal cord.

The neoplasm looks like a dense tubercle with a pigmented surface. It can take on a multiple form and in this case requires treatment with medication or surgical methods.

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