Can Bowen's disease cause squamous cell carcinoma?

Bowen's disease, also called squamous cell carcinoma in situ, involves abnormal cells in the epidermis, the skin's outer layer. It has not invaded the deeper skin at that stage. Without appropriate care, the abnormal cells may break through the boundary beneath the epidermis and become invasive squamous cell carcinoma. A scaly, rough, or persistently changing patch can look similar to eczema, psoriasis, or irritation, so appearance alone cannot establish the diagnosis.

Arrange a dermatology assessment for a patch that persists, enlarges, bleeds, crusts, or changes in texture. A clinician may examine the area with magnification and recommend a biopsy to confirm the cell changes. Treatment options depend on the patch's size, location, and depth and may include a procedure, a prescribed cream, or another targeted treatment. Follow-up helps check that treated skin is healing and that new or changing areas are assessed promptly.

Seek prompt medical attention if the area develops a firm lump, increasing tenderness, an ulcer, repeated bleeding, or a sore that does not heal. These changes can signal deeper involvement, although they do not by themselves prove invasive cancer. Urgent review is also sensible when a lesion changes quickly or sits near an eye, nose, lip, or another sensitive site.

Ask whether the diagnosis has been confirmed by biopsy, how deeply the cells extend, which treatment suits the location, and what changes should trigger an earlier review. You can also ask how to examine the rest of your skin and how often follow-up is recommended.