Skin Cancer

The skin is one of the organs most significantly affected by HIV/AIDS, necessitating an understanding of the cutaneous manifestations of the disease among dermatologists.

For more than 10 years, ultraviolet radiation has been classified by the US Department of Health and Human Services as a carcinogen. The medical community and individuals on the legislative level have increased efforts to educate the public about the dangers of indoor tanning and prohibit minors from using indoor tanning devices. The topic has become one of primary interest to dermatologists, regardless of the time of year and whether it is being discussed in the media, a number of new studies highlight some ongoing and novel issues.

Prevention is one of the most important - and most effective - strategies dermatologists have against melanoma, although early detection and treatment do significantly enhance the chance for positive outcomes. In recent years, chemotherapeutic options for melanoma have improved. These factors, in combination with new technology that augments the ability to diagnose melanoma, are leading to a shift in the way dermatologists diagnose and manage patients.

A 62-year-old Caucasian male presented to the clinic with the complaint of nail changes (Figures 1 and 2, left to right) on his left third finger for the past 2 years. He describes a thickening and discoloration of his nail for one year that progressed over the last 12 months to the appearance demonstrated in the clinical photographs. He denied any associated pain, pruritus or bleeding. He reported that he had been evaluated by multiple other dermatologists, and none were concerned with the appearance of his nail.

WHAT IS YOUR DIAGNOSIS?

This month's cover story is the Skin Cancer Review, which covers recent news, developments and research updates related to skin cancer. Recent developments include the finding that the size of tumors in patients with basal cell carcinoma who are awaiting Mohs surgery remain mostly stable and that the UV lamps used in nail salons do not increase an individual's risk for skin cancer.

Tattoos may camouflage melanomas and make clinical, dermatoscopic and/or histologic examination challenging, so it’s important for dermatologists to check these areas carefully.