D04.30

Clinical Causes: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds Chronic skin inflammation or irritation Exposure to certain chemicals or carcinogens Immunosuppression due to medical conditions or medications History of other skin cancers or precancerous skin lesions

Key Symptoms: Persistent, scaly patch or plaque on the skin of the face Redness or inflammation in the affected area Lesions that may be raised or rough in texture Presence of a sore that doesn’t heal Changes in the color or appearance of the skin, including white, pink, or slightly pigmented areas

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis typically involves a thorough physical examination of the skin, followed by diagnostic skin biopsies. A biopsy involves removing a small sample of the affected skin tissue for microscopic examination to confirm the presence of carcinoma in situ. Additional imaging tests or dermatological assessments may be used to evaluate the extent of the lesion and rule out invasive cancer. Accurate diagnosis is essential for planning appropriate treatment and management.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment options focus on removing the precancerous lesion and preventing progression to invasive skin cancer. Common approaches include: - Surgical excision: Removing the lesion completely with a margin of healthy tissue. - Cryotherapy: Freezing the abnormal cells using liquid nitrogen. - Topical treatments: Applying medications like 5-fluorouracil or imiquimod that target abnormal skin cells. - Photodynamic therapy: Using light-activated drugs to destroy cancerous cells. - Curettage and electrodessication: Scraping away the lesion followed by destruction of remaining abnormal cells with electric current. Regular follow-up is essential to monitor for recurrence or new lesions, especially given sun exposure and other risk factors.