It affects the squamous cells in the outermost layer of the skin.
Therefore,dermatologistsoften want to treat or at least monitor Bowens disease.
Learn more about the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and prognosis for Bowens disease.
Verywell / Theresa Chiechi
The patches are typically reddish-brown colored and can range from a few millimeters in size to a few centimeters.
The patches may split open, have warts, or be dark colored.
In most cases, there is only one patch.
The most common area for the patches to occur is the lower part of the leg.
Typically, the patches of skin do not cause additional symptoms.
The disease typically affects older people who are in their 60s and 70s.
Research suggests that Bowens disease may appear roughly 10 years after initial exposure to arsenic.
Today, chronic exposure to arsenic is rare.
Diagnosis
Bowens disease is often diagnosed by examining the patches of skin.
A diagnosis of Bowens disease is usually made during a standard skin examination.
A biopsy of the patch can also be taken to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other skin conditions.
In some cases, treatment is not necessary and the condition is only monitored.
After the treatment, the skin can be slow to heal and the procedure can cause blistering and crusting.
Curettage
Curettage involves scraping off the skin from the affected area.
It is done under a local anesthetic.
After the procedure, the affected patch of skin will heal like a regular scab or graze.
5-Fluorouracil Cream
5-Fluorouracilis a topical cream that kills abnormal skin cells.
It can be used to either control or eradicate Bowens disease.
Photodynamic Therapy
During photodynamic therapy, a chemical is applied to the affected area of the skin.
The chemical causes the cells in the skin to be sensitive to certain wavelengths of light.
A special lamp is then focused on the affected area.
Photodynamic therapy may cause pain and inflammation, but it typically subsides after a few days.
During treatment, it may cause some inflammation.
Prognosis
Bowens disease is typically not a serious condition.
A number of effective treatments can control or completely cure it.
Estimates suggest the progression occurs in one in 20 to one in 30 people with untreated Bowens disease.
The condition is characterized by red, scaly patches of skin.
When it is managed, Bowens disease is not usually serious and can even be curable.
British Association of Dermatologists.Bowens disease (squamous cell carcinoma in situ).
National Organization for Rare Disorders.Bowen disease.
National Health Service.Bowens disease.
American Cancer Society.What are basal and squamous cell skin cancers?
Oxford University Hospitals.Bowens disease.
