Skin neoplasms. Interview with a dermatovenerologist. Common skin neoplasms: types, diagnosis, treatment Benign skin growths

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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The skin is the largest human organ. The skin protects the human body from environmental influences. The epidermis prevents microbes and microorganisms from entering the body. Also, skin tissues are in daily contact with chemical, physical, environmentally aggressive and other factors.

The structure of the skin has three main layers. Neoplasms appear on different layers. Therefore, completely different reasons become the causes of formations. Moles formed on the skin may include malignant oncological tumors, nevi and benign formations.

Based on statistical data, the largest number of formations that appear on the skin are malignant, in the form of melanoma, basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma.

What are neoplasms?

Non-standard proliferation of skin cells is called neoplasms. Experts call exposure to ultraviolet rays as the main reason for the appearance of neoplasms. The second cause of skin lesions is carcinogenic substances. Any new formation on the skin that appears, it is imperative to monitor and consult a doctor - oncologist in a timely manner. He will carry out all the necessary diagnostic procedures. And he will recommend what further actions you need to take.

Classification of neoplasms

According to international standards, all neoplasms are divided into three types:

• Benign.
• Malignant.
• Borderline (precancerous).

Benign skin neoplasms

A characteristic feature of benign lesions is their slow growth. These growths do not infect adjacent skin cells. The formations are solitary and do not have additional lesions (metastasis). Benign neoplasms do not harm the human body, but nevertheless, they sometimes tend to degenerate into malignant ones.

Types of benign neoplasms:

• Papilloma... Benign warty growth of skin tissue. The surface of the papilloma is hairless, but nevertheless fleecy. It tends to grow in size, but it takes a long period of time. The color of the neoplasm ranges from brown to gray. The shape of papillomas is most often rounded, but it can be absolutely any.
• Seborrheic wart. Another name for this neoplasm is senile papilloma. It looks like a clearly visible warty element. It is brown to black in color. It manifests itself most often in elderly people, hence the second name. The places of their formation are most often the head, under the hair, or areas of the skin that are hidden under clothing. Seborrheic warts are formed when the placement of skin cells in the basal layer is disturbed.
• Keratoacanthoma is a cancer of the skin of the face and hands, but benign. A dense formation forms on the dermis, the central part of which is the horny masses. After the formation grows to three millimeters, it disintegrates itself, but a small scar is formed. This neoplasm cannot be reborn into cancer. In any case, such reincarnations have not yet been encountered. The place of occurrence of keratoacanthoma is most often the nevus. From the name it is clear that the formations consist of pigment cells of the epidermis. Pigmented nevi are dark in color, due to the high content of melanocytes. There is no definite place for their appearance, since neoplasms are found in completely unexpected and different places. Some of the nevi that appear are capable of turning into cancerous ones. Most often, pigmented nevi that have formed on the soles of the feet, palms of the genitals are reborn.
• Dermatofibroma... Newly formed tumor on the connective tissues of the skin. Visually looks like a single or multiple nodular pigmented growth.
• Lipoma... Formed in the fatty layer of the skin. The lesion of the epidermal tissue looks soft and nodular. The maximum can grow up to ten centimeters in size. Basically, a single tumor is formed, but there have been cases of multiple neoplasias that form on unprotected areas of the skin. Formed after insect bites and various minor injuries. The nodules are saturated in color, do not develop into larger formations in the future.
• Angioma... A neoplasm that forms on the inner walls of blood vessels and the lymphatic system. It looks like spots on the skin, which disappears when pressed. Angioma is quite difficult to diagnose in the initial stages, due to its location and type (visually, the tumor repeats the structure of the vessel). Neoplasia forms both on the surface of the skin and on internal organs.
• Angioma, formed in a vessel, disrupts its work and, naturally, is dangerous for the general health of a person. The resulting angioma on the face is a pink to bluish spot. The surface of the neoplasia is varied (that is, it can be flat and bumpy). According to the place of formation of angiomas, they are subdivided:
  1. venous cavernous
  2. mixed
  3. arteriovenous

Malignant neoplasms

Malignant tumors that appear on human skin behave very aggressively. This is manifested in an accelerated increase in the size of the formations, the formation of additional lesions, and infection of adjacent dermal tissues.

The most common types of malignant tumors:

Borderline or precancerous skin conditions are neoplasms that are in the stage of degeneration into a malignant tumor.

Types of precancerous neoplasms:

Diagnosis of neoplasms

As soon as you find a new formation on the skin or a change in the mole on the body or face, you need to contact an oncologist. A qualified visual aide is able to determine an approximate diagnosis. And already with the help of a biopsy, the good - or malignancy of the neoplasm is clarified. Therefore, do not try to diagnose a skin formation on your own, but immediately contact a specialist.

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.

Views

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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:

1. Flat warts. The most common type. Warts rise above the skin only by 1-2 mm.
2. Genital warts. They resemble cauliflower in appearance. More often appear on the genitals, around the anus, on the oral mucosa.
3. 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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Combined. Combines the previous two forms.
4. 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:

1. Cystic. Consists of isolated or communicating cysts. It is more often noted on the neck in the area of ​​the lymph nodes.
2. Cavernous. These are small formations hidden by intact skin. Detected only by touch.
3. 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:

1. 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.
2. 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:

1. Poorly differentiated. They resemble fatty compounds that are actively growing.
2. Myxoid. This is a borderline form in which cells look normal but can start to grow at any time.
3. Pleomorphic. A rare form that affects only the limbs.
4. Dedifferentiated. Aggressive, causes many metastases.
5. 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:

1. Digital epiluminescent dermoscopy. Has 95% sensitivity. It consists in instrumental screening of education using dermatoscopes.
2. 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.
3. 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

Neoplasms on human skin can have a different structure, but all of them are united by the same developmental mechanism - uncontrolled reproduction of cells that have not reached maturity, and, as a result, do not fully perform their functions.

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Distinctive features of benign neoplasms

Skin growths are also called neoplasias or tumors. Benign neoplasias have distinctive criteria by which the doctor differentiates them from malignant ones. These criteria include:

• slow growth;
• cellular elements do not spread outside the tumor;
• the neoplasm does not grow into adjacent tissues;
• the tumor grows evenly;
• as it grows, a benign tumor pushes back adjacent tissues and presses on them, as a result of which a capsule is formed;
• benign neoplasias are atypical structures, but they do not tend to metastasize.

Important: these tumors are not dangerous, but it is worth pointing out that with constant exposure to certain external factors, they can degenerate into cancerous (not all and not always, but there is a risk, especially for nevi). The most common in practice are the following neoplastic benign formations:

• hemangioma;
• fibroma;
• birthmark (aka nevus);
• lipoma;
• lymphangioma;
• papilloma;
• atheroma;
• neurofibroma.

The indication for removal is usually their unsuccessful localization (face, head, places of constant contact with clothing), large sizes, disturbances that they cause in the work of other organs. Such tumors respond well to treatment, both surgical and hardware, only in some cases they can recur.

Benign skin neoplasms: classification

Benign neoplasias are divided into:

1. Acquired neoplasms.
2. Congenital tumors.

Acquired - neoplasms that arise on the skin as a result of such pathologies:

• papillomavirus (genital warts and);
• lowered (warts on the soles and palms, thorns);
• metabolic disorders (fibroids, hard and soft, such as nevi, xanthomas, keratomas).

Congenital - neoplasias, which include:

• birthmarks (nevi with an area of ​​more than 2 cm²);
• moles.

Typical locations of benign neoplasms

Very often, such neoplasms are located in the neck, groin, face, scalp, chest, and in the armpit. There are cases when moles are located in atypical places - in the nose, auricle, on the eyelid. In this case, the desire to get rid of them is more aesthetic in nature, because it becomes the cause of discomfort or a noticeable cosmetic defect.

Symptoms of a benign neoplasm

Benign type neoplasias contain cells that partially retain their original functions, so they do not penetrate into neighboring tissues. There are many varieties of them. This article will look at the most common benign growths.

Hemangioma is a tumor based on a vascular formation. It can be of several types, depending on which vessels are involved in the process: There are several types of this benign neoplasm:

If the hemangioma is located on the face or eyelid, radiation therapy is used to remove it, in other cases cryotherapy, sclerotherapy, hormone therapy are indicated. The operative method is used when the hemangioma is located very deeply.

Fibroma

It is a neoplasia that forms from connective tissue. Very often it is diagnosed at a young age, mainly in the female sex. It is characterized by small size - a maximum of 3 cm in diameter. The fibroma looks like a spherical nodule, which is deeply set in the skin, rises slightly above its surface. It can be of different colors: from gray to black. Its surface is usually smooth, sometimes there are warty formations on it, it grows slowly. Important: despite the fact that fibroma is a benign tumor, under favorable conditions there is a risk of its degeneration into an oncological form of fibrosarcoma. To remove it, use the operative, laser, radiosurgical method or electrocoagulation.

Moles and nevi

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They are both congenital and acquired. These neoplasms are a collection of cells that have an excessive amount of melanin pigment. They are characterized by a wide variety of shapes, textures, colors, etc. They are removed both because of a possible rebirth and because of their location in inconvenient places.

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This is a neoplasm that is formed from the fatty layer, therefore its second name is "wen". It is located in the thickness of the connective tissue under the skin. Often, the tumor penetrates deeply into the underlying tissues, right down to the bones, growing between the muscles and blood vessels. Typical locations for her are areas with a thin layer of fat: shoulders, hips, up the back, head. Lipoma is soft and mobile, painless on palpation. It is characterized by slow growth. It is not hazardous to health, but in very rare cases it can degenerate into liposarcoma. Obligatory removal is indicated in the presence of intensive tumor growth and squeezing of the surrounding tissues and organs. note: Doctors recommend removing the lipoma if it grows, and it is ideally better to do it while it is small. This will avoid a large postoperative scar. For small lipomas, puncture-aspiration, radio wave, laser treatment methods are used, which ensure the removal of a benign neoplasm and an excellent cosmetic result.

This tumor forms from the lymphatic vessels. Most often, it is congenital in nature, since it is formed even in the prenatal period, and it is found in children under 3 years of age. In appearance, lamphangioma is a cavity with thin walls, the dimensions of which range from 1 to 5 mm. This neoplasia grows slowly, but there are cases of its spasmodic growth, when the tumor rapidly increases in size and then its surgical removal is indicated. The surgical method of treating benign neoplasms is also used in the case of lymphangiomas, which are located near the larynx, trachea, and other vital organs.

Papillomas and warts

They can be in the form of a flat papilla or nodule, but in practice there are growths of different sizes, shapes and shades (from flesh to brown). The main cause of these tumors is the papilloma virus, which has many different strains. It is activated in the human body against the background of vegetative disorders, low immunity.

There are certain types of warts that can transform into cancerous forms, but most of them are still safe. Antiviral and immunomodulatory drugs are used for treatment, and any method from the use of acids to a surgical method is suitable for removal.

This is an epithelial cyst - a benign neoplasm of the sebaceous gland, which occurs as a result of its blockage. The usual places of its localization: the skin of the groin, neck, head, back, that is, atheroma is located in areas where there is a high concentration of sebaceous glands. Outwardly, atheroma is distinguished by clear contours, it is quite dense, elastic on palpation, does not bring discomfort to the patient. If an infection joins, then suppuration of the tumor is possible, and it acquires a reddish tint, edema, pain, subfebrile condition appear. Atheroma in a state of inflammation can break through on its own, which is manifested by the release of purulent-sebaceous contents from it. Important: despite the fact that atheroma is benign, it can degenerate into liposarcoma - a malignant tumor. That is why it should be removed and only through the operational method.

It is a neoplasia that grows from the cells that make up the nerve sheaths. It is localized in the subcutaneous tissue or skin. Neurofibroma is a dense tubercle up to 3 cm in diameter. Outwardly, it is covered with epidermis, which is highly pigmented or depigmented. This tumor can be multiple in nature. This condition is called neurofibromatosis, and it is the result of a genetic malfunction and is inherited.

A single neurofibroma rarely degenerates into a cancerous tumor, but at the same time brings many problems to its owner, because it can cause various functional disorders, constant pain. It is important to treat this benign neoplasm with medication (retinoids), promptly or with the use of radiation therapy.

Skin neoplasms: when is there a danger?

The main danger of any benign neoplasm is its malignancy, that is, degeneration into cancer or melanoma. This is not typical for all neoplasias, and only a specialist can determine which mole on the body is potentially dangerous and which is not. To prevent degeneration, it is imperative to remove the neoplasm, especially the one that has a real threat, according to the doctor. It has been clinically proven that the most dangerous in relation to possible degeneration are nevi - birthmarks and moles that have a convex shape and are on the body from birth. In this case, timely accurate diagnosis is important. First of all, dermatologists advise removing keratomas. Also, because of the often causing discomfort, warts, warts, papillomas, xanthomas are removed.

When is it worth removing a benign neoplasm?

There are cases when neoplasia should be removed regardless of its type. This rule is valid if:

• there is an accumulation of about 20 moles on a small area of ​​the skin, which is an increased risk of developing melanoma;
• it is located on places such as the neck, face, hands, because they are often exposed to ultraviolet radiation, which significantly increases the risk of rebirth;
• someone in the family had skin cancer, since the hereditary factor plays a very large role in this case;
• neoplasia is often traumatized.

When should you visit a dermatologist?

It is important not to postpone the visit to the doctor if the neoplasm on the skin:

• increased;
• hairs began to fall out from its surface;
• changed color;
• started to bleed;
• changed the consistency;
• decreased;
• changed the shape;
• its outline has become blurred;

Under neoplasms of the skin, it is customary to understand benign or malignant lesions of the skin of a tumor nature against the background of abnormal proliferation of dermal cells. I must say that, as a rule, it is recommended to remove a benign neoplasm that has arisen, since the slightest injury or exposure to sunlight significantly increases the risk of its malignancy.

Causes and mechanism of development.
In our body, provided absolutely complete health, the number of dead and new cells is the same. However, with the formation of certain conditions and the influence of certain factors, an uncontrolled process of cell reproduction occurs, and the cells begin to divide without becoming mature, against the background of which their ability to perform their functions is lost. It is rather difficult to identify from which layer of the skin the tumor has formed, especially in the case of a malignant neoplasm.

Many factors can provoke the start of an uncontrolled process of cell division, but, perhaps, the most predisposing ones can be attributed to frequent cases of skin injury, in which cells are forced to renew too often and actively, as a result, control over this process is lost. In addition, any type of radiation (including solar radiation) stimulates the appearance of skin neoplasms. Genetic predisposition and light skin with numerous moles are also provoking factors for the development of a tumor, which in the future can easily degenerate into a malignant neoplasm.

Any formation on the skin of a benign nature does not pose a danger to human life, however, with its significant size, it causes disturbances and malfunctions in the work of organs and systems of the body (for example, cause pain by squeezing the endings, or disrupt blood circulation when squeezing blood vessels in a specific area) ... Factors such as frequent aggressive effects on the skin, skin infections, and chronic skin diseases can significantly increase the risk of various formations on the skin. In rare cases, metastases of cancer cells from any other organ can cause skin neoplasms.

Types of skin neoplasms?
It should be added that a large number of moles on the skin or other neoplasms of a benign nature (papillomas, warts) is evidence of a predisposition of this person to oncological diseases. Therefore, if you have more than eight moles on your body, you should constantly monitor them and take preventive measures. Chief among them should be noted the rejection of sunburn and long exposure to the open sun (not recommended from eleven in the morning until three in the afternoon), wearing underwear and clothes that do not harm the surface of the neoplasm. Of course, it is impossible to argue that excessive exposure to the open ultraviolet rays of the sun will immediately lead to the development of cancer, but this fact should not be ignored either.

Neoplasms are divided into three types: benign, borderline or precancerous tumors, and malignant. All of them differ in the ability to metastasize to other organs, complications, and the ability to lead to death.

Moles or nevi, atheromas, adenomas, lymphangiomas, hemangiomas, fibromas, neurofibromas, lipomas, papillomas and some others are considered benign neoplasms.

Borderline tumors include keratoacanthoma, senile keratoma, cutaneous horn, pigmented xeroderma and other not very common neoplasms.

Malignant neoplasms are represented by melanoma, sarcoma, epithelioma, basalioma.

Benign skin neoplasms.

Benign skin tumor cells can be distinguished because their original functions are preserved. Such neoplasms have a slow growth rate; in the process of development, they press on nearby tissues, but they do not penetrate into them.

Lipoma.
It is a neoplasm from the fatty layer.

Papillomas and warts.
Outwardly, they look like growths on the leg (when injured, they often turn into cancer) or bulges, the origin is viral.

Dermatofibroma.
This tumor develops from connective tissue. Most often it is detected in the fair sex at a young and mature age. Distinctive features are small size (0.3-3 cm), slow growth, insignificant subjective sensations. It rarely happens that a tumor suddenly grows, and even less often there are cases of its malignancy. Appearance: resembles a deeply welded knot with a small part of a hemisphere on the surface. The surface of the formation is often smooth, less often warty, has a color from light gray to brown and blue-black. Mainly affects the lower extremities. Dermatofibroma should be distinguished from nevus, basalioma, and dermatofibrosarcoma.

Moles and nevi.
Nevi are various sharply limited hyperpigmented skin areas that have different shapes and colors. The surface is both striped and flat. Warty growths of a nevus can be observed, reaching up to two centimeters in diameter. It is possible to distinguish them from soft fibroids by the hyperkeratotic layers present on the surface (dense crusts resembling peeling).

The most dangerous representative is considered to be a pigmented borderline nevus, in which melanin is present and which can degenerate into melanoma. As a rule, it is congenital in nature. Distinctive characteristics are: a flat nodule of brown, dark, or gray color, with a dry surface, often uneven, usually without vegetation. The size of such a nevus can reach up to five centimeters.

Lentigo.
It usually occurs during adolescence on any part of the body. Outwardly, it looks like a smooth oval spot, the diameter of which can reach one and a half centimeters. If this neoplasm occurs in old age, then it is called senile lentigo.

Atheromas.
The origins of the development of this formation are the sebaceous glands. Atheroma or epithelial cyst has a high capacity for malignancy into liposarcoma. Most often it occurs on areas of the skin where many sebaceous glands are concentrated (scalp, face, forehead). This is a solitary painless formation that rises above the surface. In the case of inflammation and the beginning of the suppuration process, the skin turns red, while painful sensations arise. Most often, it does not cause any discomfort. This neoplasm is removed only by a surgical method, by means of excision.

Hemangioma.
There is capillary and cavernous hemangioma. The capillary can reach significant sizes, and the cavernous, despite its deeper location, does not reach large sizes. The color of the tumor depends on the structure and can vary from red to bluish black. Surgical treatment with excision of the tumor and underlying layers is shown. However, removal of capillary hemangiomas requires skin graft transplantation. In this case, it is very difficult to find a skin area close in structure. When removing a cavernous hemangioma, the integrity of various structures of the body is often violated.

Precancerous neoplasms of the skin.

Pigmented xeroderma.
This tumor develops due to the excessive sensitivity of the skin to solar energy, as a result, the skin loses its properties for regeneration. The disease is congenital in nature, it is easy to diagnose it in children of the first year of life due to the abundance of freckles on the surface of the skin, which is most often exposed to solar radiation. In the future, at a rapid pace, such freckles become warty growths. In this case, it is necessary to carefully monitor these patients and carry out prophylaxis to protect them from solar radiation, and, as a result, from cancerous neoplasms of the skin. In almost every case of this disease, cell and squamous cell carcinoma occurs. A very high mortality rate in people under twenty years of age with this disease.

A serious precancerous condition is the Buschke-Levenshtein warts, the causative agent of which is the human papillomavirus. This neoplasm has a rapid growth, enormous size, and also emits a cloudy liquid with an unpleasant odor. Such a disease is characterized by a progressive course, prone to germination into closely spaced tissues and is capable of reoccurring even after complete surgical removal. In addition, the condition quickly develops into squamous cell skin cancer.

Precancerous neoplasms of the skin of old age.

Senile keratoma or senile keratosis (or solar).
As a rule, it occurs in the elderly. Outwardly, this condition looks like an orange or yellow rash on the skin, no more than one centimeter in diameter. In the future, at the site of the rash, scales and dry crusts are formed, with mechanical exfoliation of which there is a slight bleeding. If a seal appears at the base of the neoplasm, it is believed that this is the beginning of malignancy of the tumor. But this phenomenon is rarely observed.

Paget's disease.
After 42 years, women around the nipple and on it may have areas of redness with an accumulation of biological fluid, signs of peeling, weeping. Then, crusts form in this area, retraction of the nipple is observed. This disease can take years to develop. According to some oncologists, this condition is the development of cancer at an early stage.

Cutaneous (senile) horn.
This disease is usually observed in deep old age. It also occurs on open areas of the skin that are constantly squeezed or subject to friction. The primary cutaneous horn occurs on healthy skin, while the secondary horn occurs after certain diseases (for example, lupus erythematosus, solar keratosis). At the end of its formation, the tumor looks like a cone-shaped horny formation, the length of which is much greater than the diameter of its base. This disease is characterized by a long course and has a tendency to malignancy.

Malignant neoplasms of the skin.

Tissue cells of such tumors are difficult to differentiate at the initial stage of development, they have lost the ability to perform their own functions, can penetrate into nearby tissues and organs, often metastasize to blood and lymph vessels, forming tumors throughout the body.

The main signs that may indicate the degeneration of benign neoplasms (nevus, age spots, etc.) into malignant ones are the changing pigmentation of the mole, the spontaneous and rapid increase in the size of the neoplasm, its spread to other areas, bleeding, ulceration, that is, those manifestations that did not exist before. Further, metastases are formed in the lymph nodes, and then in the internal organs. Injury to the surface of such neoplasms can contribute to premature malignancy of the tumor.

Melanoma.
The most common malignant tumor. Localized in the skin. In most cases, melanoma is a consequence of the degeneration of a nevus against the background of a severe burn or injury. Therefore, trauma to the nevus is the main risk factor for malignancy of the neoplasm. Formations are especially dangerous in areas that are constantly exposed to friction. Treatment is surgical, sometimes with the use of radiation and chemotherapy. The prognosis of the disease is directly dependent on the time of detection of the tumor and its treatment.

Basalioma.
It occurs on areas of the skin that are often exposed to excessive sun exposure. The development of the disease is promoted by heredity. Within several years, it degenerates into squamous cell skin cancer. At the initial stage, the formation looks like a whitish nodule, on the surface of which a dry crust forms. There are several types of this education.

Epithelioma.
Squamous cell carcinoma or epithelioma is less common and has a severe course. The focus of localization is most often the perianal region, the external genital organs. It is almost visually impossible to distinguish it from another type of cancer, it quickly metastases. At the initial stage, the tumor looks like a ball in the thickness of the skin with a diameter of no more than a centimeter. As it grows, warts and lesions form, after which the edges become dense and uneven, and severe pain appears. As soon as the formation gives metastases to the lymph nodes, the patient's condition rapidly deteriorates. A lethal outcome can occur due to bleeding against the background of the collapse of the tumor and damage to the vessels, as well as as a result of the rapid depletion of the body. For treatment purposes, surgical removal of the tumor and lymph nodes is indicated, often in combination with radiation and chemotherapy.

Kaposi's sarcoma or angioreticulosis.
The disease in most cases develops in patients with AIDS, but the usual form of the disease clinically has identical clinical and histological manifestations. Men are at risk. The focus of localization of the disease is the lower extremities. First, purple, sometimes lilac spots are formed that do not have clear boundaries. Gradually, dense nodules of a round shape of a bluish-brown color appear, reaching up to two centimeters in diameter. These nodules are often combined and expressed; in AIDS patients, the disease has an aggressive course, often with a sharp lesion of the lymph nodes and giving metastases throughout the body.

Diagnostics of skin neoplasms:
Regular self-examination and examination at the dispensary makes it possible to timely see changes in the formations and seek help from specialists. In the presence of a pathological condition of the tumor, the specialist directs the patient for further examination.

Treatment and prevention.
There are no special measures to prevent the onset of cancer. However, as a preventive measure for diseases in the presence of a huge number of moles, they should be removed (after consulting a doctor). In the case of a genetic predisposition, such people need to be in the open sun as little as possible, use protective creams and lotions, avoid contact with aggressive substances, exclude from food products that, to one degree or another, can cause oncology.

Most often, a surgical technique is used as a treatment for neoplasms on the skin, in which there is a complete removal of the affected tissue with a small seizure of healthy ones. With the laser technique of removal, the percentage of recurrence is much lower. In the case of benign neoplasms, methods of electrocoagulation and cryodestruction are used, as well as the radio wave method.

If the cancer is inoperable, then radiation and chemotherapy are used.

If the tumor was originally malignant, then doctors always make an unfavorable prognosis, since it gives deep metastases to the internal organs, despite the fact that this will appear insignificantly on the skin. The likelihood of the patient dying is high.

A benign formation or precancerous tumor with timely surgical intervention is completely cured, excluding relapses.