Malignant skin lesions. Malignant neoplasms of the skin. Characteristic signs of the appearance

Various skin neoplasms are very common. In the structure of primary visits to outpatient dermatologists, they account for 20-25% of all dermatological diseases. An increasing use in the practice of dermatologists and cosmetologists is found by the hardware, which allows diagnosing the type and nature of the disease with high reliability.

Skin neoplasms (neoplastic formations, tumors) are a limited quantitative growth or increase in the size of qualitatively altered pathological cells that are part of the skin structures.

Classification of neoplasms

In most cases, neoplastic formations are safe for health and are predominantly cosmetic problem. At the same time, often benign and malignant types of pathological elements are outwardly similar to each other. They can arise primarily, transform from cells of benign tumors, or occur in place of the latter.

Depending on the structure and nature of growth, all types of neoplasms on the skin are combined into four large groups:

Benign.
Malignant.
Borderline or precancerous conditions.
Tumor formations, or malformations.

Benign neoplasms of the skin

They are characterized by slow growth, during which their cellular elements remain within the tumor without growing into neighboring tissues. The neoplasm, evenly increasing, pushes and squeezes healthy tissues, as a result of which the latter, as it were, play the role of a capsule. Although benign tumors are atypical, their cells do not metastasize.

The most common neoplastic formations include:

lipoma;
atheroma;
hemangioma and lymphangioma;
fibroma and neurofibroma;
nevus (birthmark).

Under the influence of adverse external or internal stimuli, they (especially nevus) can transform into malignant tumors.

Malignant neoplasms of the skin

Unlike benign, they have rapid cell division, infiltrating (invasive) growth of immature atypical cells. First, they spread in the directions of minimum resistance, that is, along the intercellular spaces, along the surface of the nerves, blood and lymphatic vessels, and membrane partitions.

After that, the cell complexes destroy the obstacles and grow into the surrounding tissues and blood vessels, destroying them in the process of their growth. Once in the bloodstream, malignant tumor cells spread to nearby and distant tissues and organs, forming metastases. Tumor growth can be exophytic (outward, on the surface) and endophytic (into the underlying skin layers, into muscles, etc.).

Malignant dermatological neoplasms include:

basal cell carcinoma, or basalioma;
squamous cell skin cancer;
melanoma that occurs against the background of nevi with a "borderline" component;
liposarcoma and fibrosarcoma;
angiosarcoma (Kaposi's sarcoma);
Paget's breast cancer (rare in young people).

In the overall structure cancer skin localization is about 30%. Such a high frequency, compared with other cancer localizations, is explained by:

- a significant spread of oncogenic viruses;

- a decrease in the level of the body's immune defenses in many people;

- the influence of a large number of chemical and other carcinogenic components in the composition of food and air, household products;

- an increase in the total radioactive background;

- Excessive exposure to ultraviolet rays for many sun tanners.

Of all malignant skin tumors, 45 to 90% are basal cell carcinomas. Its annual growth averages from 3 to 10%.

Another example is melanoma, which, although it accounts for less than 5% of all skin cancers, is more common in young people (under 30), especially among women. The lifetime risk for people with white skin is 2%. It increases with age and reaches a maximum after 80 years. Melanoma is considered the most dangerous view due to rapid growth and high mortality. Among all other skin cancers, it accounts for the highest mortality rate.

Borderline tumors, or precancerous conditions

Neoplasms of the skin that, with a statistically predictable frequency, under certain conditions or over time, are prone to cancerous transformation. These include:

senile keratosis;
border pigment nevus;
skin horn;
pigment xeroderma;
erythroplasia, or Keyr's disease, which always turns into squamous cell skin cancer;
Bowen's disease, which, without treatment, transforms into cancer with metastases.

Tumor formations

They are congenital in nature and can manifest themselves in various age periods. They are a pathological mixture of separate normal components that make up the structure of the organ. The increase in the size of these formations is not associated with a real atypical growth of the main functional elements, but with sclerotic transformation in the stroma (supporting structures), the occurrence of edema and circulatory disorders, accumulation of glandular secretion, etc. Their tissue is morphologically identical to normal, but does not have functionality. Tumor-like formations, which include mainly epidermal melanocytic nevi and sebaceous gland nevi, can be combined with true tumors or serve as a background for the latter.

A number of tumors develop mainly towards the end of middle age and in old age. These include age-related skin growths such as:

Adenomas of the sebaceous glands, which are localized, as a rule, on the face or on the back. These are dense formations with a smooth surface up to 10 mm, most often on a stalk.
Soft fibroma, malignant degeneration for which is uncharacteristic. Appears in old age, usually in the axillary and groin areas, on the neck and back surface chest.
Senile keratosis, which occurs mainly after 50 years, less often - after 40 years. It is a dense layer of keratinized epithelium of brown or grayish color in the form of crusts with flat scales. After their mechanical rejection, a rough surface remains, sometimes blood drops “protrude”. The main places of localization are the anterior and posterior surfaces of the chest, the cheeks and forehead, the skin of the temporal regions. Senile keratosis is often prone to degeneration into squamous cell skin cancer. It must be differentiated from melanoma.
Keratoacanthoma, the differential diagnosis of which with squamous cell carcinoma presents certain difficulties. The tumor-like formation is raised above the skin surface and has a crater-like depression in the center, which is filled with a horny mass. Keratoacanthoma occurs after the age of 50 on open parts of the body and most often resolves on its own with the formation of a scar, but sometimes it can degenerate into cancer.
Cutaneous horn - develops on the face or exposed areas of the body that are subject to frequent friction. Occurs after the age of 60-70 years. The tumor has the form of a dense cone of yellow, pink, brownish or gray color. It is prone to malignancy or may be an early stage of squamous cell carcinoma.
Paget's cancer - usually localized in the nipple-areolar zone, sometimes with the formation of a node around it. The tumor rarely affects the skin of the external genitalia of a woman, the penis and the skin of the perineum. In women, it can appear after 60, and in men - after 70 years and proceeds much more aggressively. The disease can manifest itself in three forms: pink papular rashes with small scales; small eruption on ulcerated surface and wet nipple; small crusts on the skin and weeping under them like eczema.

Treatment

Removal of benign formations and malformations of the skin is carried out mainly in cosmetic purposes or when they are subject to constant mechanical irritation or damage in certain areas of the skin. In other cases, only periodic monitoring of them is possible to prevent malignant degeneration and growth.

Treatment of tumors of other types consists in their removal by thermal (cryodestruction), chemical (liquid nitrogen), pharmacological, surgical methods or the method of radiation exposure if other methods cannot be used. The most efficient and reliable is surgical removal skin neoplasms by simple excision, radio wave or laser method.

Traditional surgical excision with a scalpel makes it possible to carry out histological control of the removed area in order to exclude the presence of malignant cells. The disadvantages are difficult visual control due to bleeding, damage to tissues adjacent to the tumor, and the possibility of introducing pathologically altered tumor cells into neighboring areas. In addition, excision with a scalpel often leaves behind an aesthetic defect in the form of a rough scar.

Unlike it, laser removal of skin neoplasms is carried out without direct contact with tissues. It is characterized by high accuracy, the absence of bleeding and rough postoperative scars, and also excludes the drift of pathological cells into the tissues bordering with the tumor. However, the main disadvantage laser removal consists in the destruction of the cells of the entire tumor, and therefore it is impossible to carry out its further histological examination.

The method of removing a pathological skin area using a radio wave knife of the Surgitron device has all the advantages of a laser operation. At the same time, this method, having a high accuracy and a narrow focus of the radio wave beam, allows you to keep the tumor itself intact for histological examination.

Significance of differential diagnosis

All benign and borderline skin neoplasms are dynamically developing structures, some of which may undergo malignant transformation. In addition, with a simple visual inspection, some Various types elements have a significant similarity with each other and with malignant species.

This explains the importance of instrumental screening of neoplasms using dermatoscopes. Digital epiluminescent dermatoscopy, with a sensitivity of up to 95% and a specificity of up to 79-93.5%, combined with automatic analysis by means of computer software, completely eliminates subjective evaluation.

Possibility of carrying out an objective differential diagnosis With a high degree reliability makes it possible to detect precancerous and malignant neoplasms on early stages their development and choose the appropriate method of treatment.

Malignant neoplasms of the skin develop in three main forms: basal cell carcinoma, melanoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.

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Malignant neoplasms of the skin - types and description

Basalioma

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Melanoma

Melanoblastoma is the most malignant tumor that initially resides in the skin in situ pigmented nevus. The provoking factor in the occurrence of this oncology is trauma and ultraviolet radiation.

Clinical picture:

Pathology arises from age spots, which looks like a rounded dark nevus. After mechanical trauma, tumor formation causes intense pigmentation and an increase in surface roughness. As a result of the expansion of the affected area, trauma to the neoplasm becomes more frequent, which is accompanied by bleeding and infection.

To establish the final diagnosis, the oncologist resorts to a biopsy, which consists in the histological and cytological analysis of a small area of the affected tissues. results microscopic examination allow to determine the stage and prevalence of pathology.

Treatment:

The diagnosis of "skin melanoma" () provides for urgent surgical operation to remove a malignant neoplasm. After the surgical intervention it is recommended to conduct a course of chemotherapy and radiation therapy to prevent possible metastases of the disease.

Radiation therapy uses high intensity x-rays to kill cancer cells.

Chemotherapy includes a course of cytotoxic drugs to stabilize tumor growth before surgical treatment.

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

Neoplasms on the skin are a process of abnormal cell division, while the cells are not mature, which means that 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 is to contact a specialist who will prescribe 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 risk of damage to it. 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, in no case do not self-medicate. You can not only not get rid of neoplasia, but also make yourself even worse.

Benign neoplasms

This type a tumor is a nodule that has grown from connective or fibrous tissue. According to external signs, this is a pink or flesh-colored formation that has a clear outline. Fibroma does not cause discomfort or pain, and is also characterized by slow growth. Most often 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 causes of fibroma 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 fibromas 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 large sizes then surgical excision is performed.

Papilloma

This 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. They are 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 a person’s blood, then the formation is likely to degenerate into a malignant one. You can become infected with this virus through sexual (70% probability) and household contacts. For women, infection with an oncogenic strain of HPV is also fraught with the development of cervical cancer.

papilloma treatment medicines not possible, only with the help of removal. However, the risk of re-growth of papillomas increases if a person has weakened immunity or an exhausting lifestyle.

Mandatory removal includes those papillomas that are localized in traumatic places. The signal to consult a specialist is the unexpected appearance or strong growth of papilloma.

Lipoma (wen)

This is a benign tumor consisting of mature fat cells (hence the name wen). Most often it is subcutaneous and only in 2% of cases is located in the 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 wen occur 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 the removal is performed under general anesthesia. Operations almost always contribute to the complete recovery of the patient.

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

Moles and birthmarks

These are formations on the skin that can be either congenital or acquired. Also, moles can be different colors: brown, red, black, etc. They are formed due to the fact that cells 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 a specialist.

This is a type of tumor that is formed due to blockage of the sebaceous glands. It is a capsule under the skin filled with fluid. A distinctive feature is the smell 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 a hairline.

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

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

Treatment most often occurs surgically by 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 torso. The tumor grows rapidly, but may spontaneously disappear, leaving behind scars.

Due to the risk of malignant transformation, the tumor requires close monitoring, and in some cases there are indications for removal.

The causes of the appearance are not fully known, however, in about 50% of patients, the human papillomavirus is detected in the blood. Also, the risk of a tumor increases in smokers and in people in contact with chemical carcinogens (tar, soot, polycyclic hydrocarbons).

Hemangioma is a benign tumor that consists of vascular tissue cells. Most often diagnosed in newborns. In adults, hemangioma rarely appears, reaches a couple of centimeters and does not cause any discomfort. As a rule, the disease resolves 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 an acute respiratory infection or tonsillitis during pregnancy. And the causes of occurrence in adults are not known at all.

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

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

Precancerous neoplasms

These formations on the skin, which, with the passage of time or under certain conditions, can degenerate into malignant ones.

Pigmented xeroderma

Develops with hypersensitivity 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 identified by a large number of freckles, which are converted 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 supervision of an oncologist, a dermatologist, and, if necessary, an ophthalmologist and a neuropathologist.

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

Precancerous neoplasms of old skin

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

Senile keratoma

Is it singular or plural benign education on skin prone to malignancy. It is a rounded plaque with layers of keratinized skin. Perhaps malignant degeneration with the development of skin cancer. The degeneration of the tumor into malignant in 9-15% of cases.

It is most common in older people over the age of 50. Some argue that this type of tumor in men is more common.

Possible treatment for keratoma different ways: electrocoagulation, laser removal, liquid nitrogen, radio wave removal and surgical (if a malignant transformation is suspected or if the size is large).

Keyr's disease

This 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 trauma to the genital organs.

Treatment is performed surgically. With invasive tumor growth, chemotherapy is performed.

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 main threat of this disease is its transformation into squamous cell skin cancer.

For small outbreaks the best treatment is the surgical removal of the tumor. If removal is not possible, then radiotherapy is used.

Cutaneous (senile) horn

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

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

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

When removing a benign skin horn, it is required to observe preventive measures to avoid recurrence of the disease.

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

Malignant neoplasms of the skin

These are tumors whose cells have lost the ability to perform their own functions on early stages development. Often give metastases and form tumors over the entire surface of the skin of the body.

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

This is a malignant tumor that develops from cells that produce melanin. This disease is very rarely treatable and the cases of death in melanoma are very high.

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

Prevention of melanoma is the restriction of exposure to the sun and the use of special sunscreens.

The treatment of melanoma is mainly surgical. In the early stages, the tumor is removed along with an area of healthy skin around. Additionally, radiation and chemotherapy are performed.

Basalioma

A malignant tumor formed from the cells of the epidermis. This tumor practically does not metastasize. It occurs mainly in people over the age of 40. The main factor contributing to the appearance of basalioma is prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, contact with toxic substances and carcinogens, and constant skin injury.

Despite the fact that basalioma is a type of cancer, it is characterized by a benign course. by the most big complication is that in the process of growth, it affects and destroys the tissues surrounding it. Death occurs when the tumor affects the bones, ears, eyes, brain membranes, etc.

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

Kaposi's sarcoma (angioendothelioma of the skin)

This type of malignant tumor is a 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 causes of Kaposi's sarcoma are not fully known.

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

Forecast and prevention of neoplasms on the skin

Today, with modern methods of treating benign and precancerous tumors, the prognosis is very positive - a complete cure, no recurrence and no degeneration into malignant tumors. For malignant tumors, the prognosis is not so favorable. Certain conditions are necessary for the possibility of a complete cure, and if these conditions are present, then a lot of effort will be required.

On this moment there is no single measure for anyone and everyone, following which you will be safe. However, there are a number of measures that will help reduce the risk of any tumors forming on the surface of the skin:

Constantly monitor the condition of your skin. Do not lose sight of the slightest change or the appearance of something new. If you find a new tumor that was not there before, contact an 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 excessive exposure to sunlight and ultraviolet radiation on the skin. Avoid sunburn with special cream, the protection factor of which is at least 30. Especially if your skin has increased pigmentation, an abundance of moles, or just very fair 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 cause cancer. These products include: smoked products, fats of animal origin, sausages and other meat products with a large amount of food stabilizers.

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

Facial skin is one of the most vulnerable areas of the human body. Every day she is subjected to negative impact environment (Sun rays, wind, polluted air) and suffers from various chemicals (soaps, gels, scrubs, cosmetics).

That is why facial skin tissues are damaged more often than the epidermis located on the back, chest or abdomen.

From time to time, ordinary damage provokes the appearance of neoplasms different nature. They can be both absolutely safe and pose a certain threat to human life and health.

A neoplasm is a skin lesion that has a tumor nature. It occurs against the background of an abnormal proliferation of cells in one of the layers of the dermis.

Neoplasms on the skin of the face are removed, regardless of whether they carry with them the risk of developing an oncological disease or not.

Why do they arise?

There are many reasons for neoplasms. This can be a mechanical violation of the integrity of the skin, and exposure to ultraviolet rays, and exposure to carcinogens. After starting the process of uncontrolled division, the number of cells increases at a tremendous speed.

At the same time, the ability of some tissues to perform their normal functions is lost. It is quite difficult to determine in which layer of the dermis the process of tumor formation began, even with the use of modern laboratory equipment.

benign

A characteristic feature of a benign neoplasm on the face is slow growth. Such a tumor does not infect neighboring areas of the skin and does not provoke the emergence of new metastases.

Benign lesions of the dermis do not cause significant harm to the human body, but, subject to certain conditions may become malignant.

The main types of neoplasia of this type include:

Papillomas. Benign lesions of viral origin. Papillomas tend to grow and increase in size. The shape of the neoplasm is round, the color ranges from gray to dark brown. The surface is devoid of hairs.

seborrheic warts(keratomas). They are non-viral in nature. They arise due to a violation of the location of the cells of the basal layer of the dermis.

They look like warty formations of brown or black color that clearly stand out on the skin of the face. They are usually located on the border of hair growth, never degenerate into cancerous tumors. Most often, keratomas can be found in the elderly.

Keratoacanthoma. Benign tumors of hair follicles. Most often affect the skin of the hands and face. During the appearance, a seal appears on the surface of the dermis, in the center of which there are horny masses.

After the neoplasm grows up to 3 mm in diameter, it disintegrates, and a small scar appears in its place. The pigment cells of the epidermis form the basis of keratoacanthoma.

Dermatofibroma. Tumors of the connective tissues of the skin in the form of small nodules appear most often in people over 30 years of age. They do not pose a risk to human health.

Lipomas(wens). Formed in the fatty layer of the dermis. The lesion has a nodular character, can grow up to 10 cm in diameter. Multiple neoplasias are very rare, most often the tumor is located quite compactly. The most common causes are minor injuries and insect bites.

Angiomas(red moles). The neoplasm is formed on the walls of the blood vessels of the face and upper body. It has a rich pink or bluish color, disappears when pressed. The surface of the lesion can be either flat or bumpy.

More often benign neoplasms removed for cosmetic purposes. It is not uncommon for a referral for removal to be issued by an oncologist to prevent further transformation of neoplasia into a cancerous tumor.

Malignant

They pose a threat to human life and health. They behave very actively, quickly increase in size and infect neighboring skin areas. Among the most common malignant tumors are:

melanomas. A neoplasm that occurs during the degeneration of benign tumors. Distinctive features- high rate of increase in the affected area. The surface of the tumor is bumpy, has a dark color. The occurrence of melanoma may be accompanied by itching and bleeding.

Squamous cell carcinoma. Neoplasia occurs as seals on the surface of the epidermis, which gradually degenerate into a non-healing ulcer. The tumor spreads to neighboring tissues and provokes the emergence of new foci of the disease. May develop during the course of actinic keratosis.

Basal cell carcinoma. It is characterized by the absence of multiple metastatic foci. The lesion develops from one center, in the course of damage to the basal layer of the dermis, the tumor penetrates to neighboring areas of the skin. initial form neoplasia - an uneven papule with an ulcer in the central part.

Dermatofibrosarcoma. The defeat of the connective tissue, has the form of a small convex nodule Brown. Develops slowly, can give metastases.

Liposarcoma. It is formed from fat cells that have transformed into cancer cells. The lesion develops slowly, but can reach a significant size. The shape is rounded.

Important! Once appearing, malignant neoplasms may not manifest themselves for a long time. Prompt diagnosis and competent treatment can stop the development of the disease.

Precancerous neoplasms in the elderly

Precancerous skin conditions, which are also called borderline, usually occur in older people. Their presence does not guarantee the degeneration of neoplasia into a cancerous tumor, but requires heightened attention and medical supervision. The two most common types of borderline neoplasms are Bowen's disease and actinic keratosis.

In the first case, the pathology develops as an inflammation of the skin cells in the forehead and temples. Visually, the lesion looks like a rough seal of pink or brown color with jagged edges. Maximum size tumors - 4–5 cm in diameter.

Actinic keratosis occurs due to excessive exposure of the skin to ultraviolet rays. The neoplasm looks like a round plaque or red wart with horny pigmentation.

Methods for detecting diseases

It is almost impossible to determine the nature of neoplasia without the help of a doctor. Therefore, if there are lumps, moles or inflammations of unknown origin on your face, contact a specialist as soon as possible.

After the examination, the oncologist will make a preliminary diagnosis and send you for a biopsy.

According to the results laboratory research the level of malignancy of the neoplasm will be established and appropriate treatment will be prescribed.

Treatment Methods

The method of dealing with facial skin lesions is determined by the attending physician.

Among the most common methods can be mentioned:

Surgical excision. The neoplasm is cut out along with the affected skin tissues and lymph nodes;
Beam exposure. Used to eliminate small neoplasia;
cryogenic effect. Liquid nitrogen is used to remove the tumor on the face;
Chemotherapy. It is prescribed by an oncologist if it is not possible to remove metastases surgically for one reason or another.

Chemotherapy is usually combined with radiation exposure. Classification of radiation therapy is carried out according to the type of particle flow (α-radiation, β-radiation, etc.)

How to prevent occurrence?

The most effective method of preventing the occurrence of benign and malignant neoplasia on the skin of the face is the use of creams and lotions that protect the dermis from ultraviolet rays.

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You should also avoid contact with aggressive chemicals and limit the consumption of foods containing a large number of carcinogens.

Various formations under the skin: bumps, balls, seals, tumors - this is a common problem that almost every person faces. In most cases, these formations are harmless, but some of them require urgent treatment.

Bumps and lumps under the skin can develop on any part of the body: the face, arms and legs, back, abdomen, etc. Sometimes these formations are hidden in the folds of the skin, on the scalp, or grow so slowly that for a long time remain invisible and are detected, having reached a large size. So usually benign neoplasms of the skin and soft tissues are asymptomatic.

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bumps, seals, causing pain or discomfort, more often due to infection. They may be accompanied by an increase in general or local temperature. The skin over them usually turns red. Associated disorders occur: general malaise, headache, weakness, etc. When timely treatment such formations usually pass quickly.

Much less common are malignant neoplasms of the skin and underlying tissues that can be felt or noticed on their own. These diseases need to be able to recognize in time and consult a doctor as soon as possible. Below, we'll cover the most common skin growths that can cause concern.

Lipoma (wen)

Lumps under the skin are most often lipomas. These are benign, completely harmless tumors of fat cells. Lipoma is palpable under the skin as a soft formation with clear boundaries, sometimes a bumpy surface. The skin over the lipoma is of normal color and density, easily folded.

Atheroma

Atheroma is often confused with lipoma, also called a wen. In fact, it is a cyst, that is, stretched sebaceous gland in which the excretory duct is blocked. Atheroma content - sebum, gradually accumulates, stretching the capsule of the gland.

To the touch it is a dense rounded formation, with clear boundaries. The skin over the atheroma cannot be folded, sometimes the surface of the skin takes on a bluish color and you can see a point on it - a clogged duct. Atheroma can become inflamed and suppurate. If necessary, it can be removed by the surgeon.

Nodules on the joints

Various diseases joints: arthritis and arthrosis are often accompanied by the appearance of small, firm, immovable nodules under the skin. Similar formations in the elbow joint are called rheumatoid nodules and are characteristic of rheumatoid arthritis. Nodules on the extensor surface of the joints of the fingers - Heberden's and Bouchard's nodules accompany deforming osteoarthritis.

Gouty nodes can reach a significant size - tophi, which are an accumulation of uric acid salts and grow on the joints in people, long years suffering from gout.

Hernia

Feels like a soft bulge under the skin that can appear with exertion and disappear completely when lying down or at rest. A hernia is formed in the navel, a postoperative scar on the abdomen, in the groin, on the inner surface of the thigh. The hernia may be painful when palpated. Sometimes fingers manage to set it back.

A hernia is formed by the internal organs of the abdomen, which are squeezed out through weak spots in the abdominal wall during an increase in intra-abdominal pressure: when coughing, lifting weights, etc. Find out if a hernia can be cured with folk methods, and why it is dangerous.

Enlarged lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy)

Most often accompanied colds. Lymph nodes are small rounded formations that can be felt under the skin in the form of soft elastic balls ranging in size from a pea to a plum, not soldered to the surface of the skin.

Lymph nodes are located in groups in the neck, under the lower jaw, above and below the collarbones, in the armpits, in the elbow and knee folds, in the groin and other parts of the body. These are components of the immune system that, like a filter, pass interstitial fluid through themselves, clearing it of infection, foreign inclusions and damaged cells, including tumor cells.

Enlargement of the lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy), which become painful when probed, usually accompanies infectious diseases: sore throat, otitis media, flux, panaritium, as well as wounds and burns. Treatment of the underlying disease leads to a decrease in the node.

If the skin over the lymph node turns red, and probing it becomes sharply painful, the development of lymphadenitis is likely - a purulent lesion of the node itself. In this case, you need to contact the surgeon. Minor surgery may be needed, and if treated early, the infection can sometimes be managed with antibiotics.

Their reasons are different: more often it is a viral infection, mechanical trauma, hormonal disorders. Sometimes warts and papillomas grow out of the blue, without apparent reason and can be located on any part of the body, including the mucous membranes of the genital organs. For the most part, these are harmless outgrowths that cause only cosmetic discomfort or interfere with wearing clothes or underwear. However, the variety of their shapes, colors and sizes does not allow one to independently distinguish a benign wart, condyloma or soft fibroma from malignant skin diseases. Therefore, when a suspicious outgrowth appears on the skin, it is advisable to show it to a dermatologist or oncologist.

Thickening in the breast (in the mammary gland)

Almost every woman faces breast seals in different periods life. In the second phase of the cycle, especially on the eve of menstruation, small seals can be felt in the chest. Usually, with the onset of menstruation, these formations disappear and they are associated with a normal change in the mammary glands under the action of hormones.

If hardening or peas in the chest are palpable and after menstruation, it is advisable to contact a gynecologist who will examine the mammary glands and, if necessary, prescribe an additional study. In most cases, breast formations are benign, some of them are recommended to be removed, others are amenable to conservative treatment.

Reasons for urgent medical attention are:

rapid increase in node size;
pain in the mammary glands, regardless of the phase of the cycle;
the formation does not have clear boundaries or the contours are uneven;
retracted or deformed skin above the node, ulcer;
there is discharge from the nipple;
enlarged lymph nodes are palpable in the armpits.

Skin inflammation and ulcers

A whole group of skin lesions can be associated with infection. The most common cause of inflammation and suppuration is the bacterium staphylococcus aureus. The skin in the affected area turns red, swelling and compaction of various sizes appear. The surface of the skin becomes hot and painful to the touch, and the general body temperature may also rise.

Sometimes inflammation quickly spreads through the skin, capturing large areas. Such a diffuse lesion is characteristic of erysipelas (erysipelas). A more serious condition - phlegmon - is a purulent inflammation of the subcutaneous fatty tissue. Frequent are focal inflammatory diseases: carbuncle and furuncle, which are formed when damaged hair follicles and sebaceous glands.

Surgeons are involved in the treatment of purulent-inflammatory diseases of the skin and soft tissues. With the appearance of redness, pain and swelling on the skin, accompanied by fever, you need to contact them for help as soon as possible. In the initial stages, the problem can be solved with antibiotics, in more advanced cases, you have to resort to surgery.

Malignant tumors

Compared to other skin lesions, malignant tumors are very rare. As a rule, at first there is a focus of compaction or a nodule in the thickness of the skin, which gradually grows. Usually the tumor does not hurt or itch. The surface of the skin may be normal, flaky, crusty, or dark in color.

Signs of malignancy are:

uneven and indistinct borders of the tumor;
enlargement of adjacent lymph nodes;
rapid growth in education;
cohesion with the surface of the skin, immobility when probing;
bleeding and ulceration on the surface of the focus.

A tumor can develop at the site of a mole, like melanoma. It can be located under the skin, like a sarcoma, or at the site of a lymph node - a lymphoma. If you suspect a malignant neoplasm of the skin, you should contact an oncologist as soon as possible.

Which doctor should I contact with a lump or lump on the skin?

If you are concerned about formations on the body, find good doctor using the service NaPopravku:

- if the seal looks like a wart or papilloma;
surgeon - if required surgical treatment abscess or benign tumor;
an oncologist to rule out a tumor.

If you think a different specialist is needed, please use our Who Treats This Help section. There, based on your symptoms, you can more accurately determine the choice of a doctor. You can also start with an initial diagnosis by a therapist.