Malignant Skin Tumours in Kumasi: A Five Year Review

Abstract

Introduction: Ultraviolet radiation is the primary aetiological agent in malignant melanoma (MM), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC). Its effect on carcinogenesis can be influenced by endogenous and exogenous factors.
Objective: To document the clinical and epidemiological features of patients presenting with malignant skin tumours at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), from January 2009 to December 2013.
Patients and Methods: Records of patients treated for malignant skin tumours at KATH were retrieved from the surgical out-patient department and theatre records and analysed.
Results: 38 patients comprising 16 males and 22 females were treated for malignant skin disease from January 2009 to December 2013. Their ages ranged from 12 to 84 years (mean 48.4, SD=20.2). Predominant lesions were SCC (17 cases), MM (12 cases), and dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP), (four cases). SCC were located on the scalp (eight cases), lower limbs (six cases), upper limb (two cases) and trunk (one). All MM lesions were located on the foot. DFSP lesions were found on the leg (one case), trunk (one case), and shoulders (two cases). Basosquamous carcinoma (BSC) was found on the trunk of an albino. All patients were treated surgically (48 procedures); three SCC patients had radiotherapy; one MM patient had chemotherapy.
Conclusion: SCC, MM and DFSP were the main malignant skin tumours managed. Chronic wounds, scars and skin bleaching were the exogenous factors; whilst albinism and xeroderma pigmentosum were the endogenous factors identified. For prevention, early
case detection, adequate treatment of wounds and sun avoidance are advocated.