Cutaneous malignancy: our observations and review of literature

Background: Cutaneous malignancies are relatively rare in Indian subcontinent compared to western part of the world. Rarity of its incidence could be due to protective effects of melanin.Though it is the largest organ by surface area, occurrence of cutaneous malignancy is quite less compared to other organs. Presentation is usually earlier due to the fact that it is easily noticeable. Objective:To determine the age and sex incidence, common site of presentation, type of histology,optimal management and its outcome, also avoidable risk factors. Methods: It is retrospective analysis of all the cutaneous malignancies diagnosed and managed in the department of surgical oncology at tertiary care hospital from January 2016 to December 2018. Results: With this background, we present 15 cases of cutaneous malignancies which were managed over period of 3 years.3 cases were melanoma and 9 cases were squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma was the final diagnosis in another 3cases. Surgical excision with adequate margins were done in 13 cases and palliative chemotherapy was given in one case and no cancer directed treatment was given in a case which had extensive skin lesion on scalp with poor general condition of the patient. Conclusion: Increasing incidence of cutaneous malignancy should alert the clinicians to create awareness regarding warning signs of skin cancer. Nonsurgical options needs to be considered especially in syndromic conditions and inoperable situations. Surgery with adequate margins offers the best option of cure.