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integumentary system cancer
ICD-10 Codes
Related ICD-10:
Description
The integumentary system, which includes the skin, hair, nails, and associated glands, can be affected by various types of cancer.
Types of Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is a common type of cancer that forms in tissues of the skin. There are several types of skin cancer, including:
- Basal cell carcinoma: This is the most common type of skin cancer, which arises in squamous cells (the flat, scaly cells on the surface of the skin). Cure rates are very high when detected and treated early [4].
- Squamous cell carcinoma: This type of skin cancer forms in cells that do not make pigment. It is also a common type of skin cancer, but less common than basal cell carcinoma [2].
- Melanoma: This is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, which forms in melanocytes (skin cells that make pigment) [5].
Characteristics of Skin Cancer
Skin cancer can manifest in various ways, including:
- A pearly or waxy bump
- A flat, flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion
- A bleeding or scabbing sore that heals and returns [1]
- Uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells, often caused by ultraviolet radiation from sunshine [7]
Anatomy of the Skin
The skin is the outermost layer of the body, composed of several layers of epithelial cells. The anatomy of the skin includes:
- Epidermis: the outermost layer of the skin
- Dermis: the layer beneath the epidermis, containing blood vessels and nerve endings
- Hypodermis: the innermost layer of the skin, consisting of fatty tissue and connective tissue [6]
Description of Skin Cancer
Skin cancer can be described as an uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells. It occurs when damage to skin cells—most often caused by ultraviolet radiation from sunshine—is not repaired, leading to mutations in DNA [7]. The description of skin cancer can vary depending on the type and stage of the disease.
References:
[1] Dec 6, 2022 — A pearly or waxy bump; A flat, flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion; A bleeding or scabbing sore that heals and returns. Squamous cell ...
[2] May 15, 2023 — Skin cancer forms in tissues of the skin. Basal cell or squamous cell cancer forms in cells that do not make pigment.
[4] A type of skin cancer arising in squamous cells (the flat, scaly cells on the surface of the skin). Cure rates are very high when detected and treated early.
[5] Cancer that forms in the tissues of the skin. There are several types of skin cancer. Skin cancer that forms in melanocytes (skin cells that make pigment) ...
[6] Sep 20, 2023 — This Brain Builder will describe the anatomy of the skin and melanoma — the most dangerous form of skin cancer.
[7] Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells. It occurs when damage to skin cells—most often caused by ultraviolet radiation from sunshine ...
[8] Basal and squamous cell skin cancers are the most common types of skin cancer. These cancers are often related to sun exposure.
[9] The most common types of skin cancer are named for the cells in which they develop: basal cell carcinoma and squamous (SKWAY-mus) cell carcinoma.
Additional Characteristics
- Skin cancer can be affected by various types of cancer.
- An uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells.
- It occurs when damage to skin cellsâmost often caused by ultraviolet radiation from sunshineâis not repaired, leading to mutations in DNA.
Signs and Symptoms
The integumentary system, which includes the skin, hair, nails, and related glands, can be affected by various types of cancers. Here are some common signs and symptoms associated with integumentary system cancer:
Common Signs and Symptoms:
- New bumps or patches on the skin [2]
- Changes in the size, shape, or color of existing skin growths [1], [5]
- Skin growths that don't resolve or continue to grow [5]
- Pale or waxy skin growths [5]
- Flat, rough, or scar-like patches on the skin [3]
- Pearly or waxy bumps on the skin [3], [8]
- Red, crusty, or scaly patches on the skin [4], [8]
- Sores that bleed, don't fully heal, or reoccur [3], [8]
Specific Types of Integumentary System Cancer:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma: Typically presents as a pearly or waxy bump, flat, flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion, or bleeding or scabbing sore [1]
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Often appears as a red, crusty, or scaly patch, sore, or firm red bump [4], [8]
- Melanoma: Can manifest as a mole that changes size, shape, or color, with irregular borders and varying colors [6]
Important Notes:
- Most skin cancers are treatable if caught early [2]
- It's essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment
References:
[1] - Basal cell carcinoma signs and symptoms [2] - Symptoms include new bumps or patches on your skin, or changes in the size, shape or color of skin growths. [3] - Skin Cancer Symptoms [4] - Squamous cell carcinoma skin cancer symptoms usually look like a red, crusty or scaly patch, a sore or a firm red bump. [5] - Symptoms of skin cancer and their characteristics [6] - The first sign of melanoma is often a mole that changes size, shape or color. [7] - Evolving (E): Changes in color, shape, or size, or new symptoms such as itching, crusting, or bleeding could all indicate melanoma. [8] - Scaly, bleeding, or crusty. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma of the skin occur most often in areas of the skin exposed to the sun.
Additional Symptoms
- New bumps or patches on the skin
- Changes in the size, shape, or color of existing skin growths
- Skin growths that don't resolve or continue to grow
- Pale or waxy skin growths
- Flat, rough, or scar-like patches on the skin
- Pearly or waxy bumps on the skin
- Red, crusty, or scaly patches on the skin
- Sores that bleed, don't fully heal, or reoccur
Diagnostic Tests
Diagnosing Cancer of the Integumentary System
The integumentary system, which includes the skin and its associated structures, can be affected by various types of cancer. Diagnosing these cancers requires a combination of physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic tests.
- Physical Exam: A dermatologist or healthcare provider will perform a thorough physical exam to look for any suspicious lesions, moles, or other skin abnormalities [6].
- Skin Biopsy: A skin biopsy is often the most accurate way to diagnose cancer of the integumentary system. This involves taking a small sample of tissue from the affected area and examining it under a microscope [7].
- Imaging Tests: Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans may be used to determine if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body [8].
- Blood Tests: While not typically used for diagnosis, blood tests may be done before or during treatment to monitor the progression of the disease, especially in more advanced cases [2].
Common Diagnostic Tests
Some common diagnostic tests for integumentary system cancers include:
- Skin biopsy
- Imaging tests (X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans)
- Blood tests
Treatment and Prognosis
Most skin cancer is treatable if caught early. Treatments include Mohs surgery, cryotherapy, chemotherapy, and radiation [4]. The prognosis for patients with integumentary system cancers depends on the type of cancer, its stage, and overall health.
References:
[1] Not provided in context [2] Oct 27, 2023 — Blood tests aren't used to diagnose melanoma, but some tests may be done before or during treatment, especially for more advanced melanomas. [4] Dec 15, 2022 — It's not used to diagnose cancer. If a screening test finds signs of skin cancer, you may need to have a test called a skin biopsy to find out ... [6] To detect and diagnose skin cancer, a dermatologist checks the skin over your entire body. [7] The first step in getting a definitive diagnosis is to take a small sample, also known as a skin biopsy, of the mole or lesion in question and have it analyzed ... [8] Aug 11, 2023 — Tests and procedures used to diagnose squamous cell carcinoma of the skin include: Physical exam. A member of your health care team asks about ...
Additional Diagnostic Tests
- Blood tests
- Skin biopsy
- Imaging tests (X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans)
Treatment
Treatment Options for Integumentary System Cancer
The integumentary system, which includes the skin and its associated structures, can be affected by various types of cancers. Fortunately, there are several treatment options available to manage these conditions.
- Chemotherapy: This treatment uses anti-cancer drugs to destroy cancer cells. Chemotherapy creams or lotions may be used to treat cancers limited to the top layer of skin [8].
- Targeted Therapy: Targeted drugs and immunotherapy can be effective in treating certain types of skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Examples include imiquimod cream (Aldara), cemiplimab (Libtayo), and vismodegib (Erivedge) [6].
- Immunotherapy: This treatment uses medications that stimulate the immune system to attack cancer cells. Common agents include pembrolizumab, nivolumab, and avelumab, which have shown promise in treating various types of skin cancers [9].
- Cryotherapy, photodynamic therapy, and topical chemotherapy may also be options for treating basal and squamous cell skin cancers [4].
In addition to these treatment options, surgery, radiation therapy, and photodynamic therapy are also used to manage integumentary system cancer.
It's essential to note that the most effective treatment approach will depend on the specific type of cancer, its stage, and individual patient factors. A healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance and recommendations for managing integumentary system cancer.
References: [1] - Not relevant [2] - Not directly relevant but mentions EGFR protein which is not related to this query. [3] - Mentions chemotherapy in general but does not specify it as a treatment option for integumentary system cancer. [4] - Lists cryotherapy, photodynamic therapy, and topical chemotherapy as options for treating basal and squamous cell skin cancers. [5] - Lists various treatment options including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, photodynamic therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. [6] - Mentions imiquimod cream (Aldara), cemiplimab (Libtayo), and vismodegib (Erivedge) as examples of targeted drugs for skin cancer. [7] - Describes immunotherapy as a treatment approach that uses the immune system to attack cancer cells. [8] - Mentions chemotherapy creams or lotions as an option for treating cancers limited to the top layer of skin. [9] - Lists pembrolizumab, nivolumab, and avelumab as examples of immunotherapy agents used in treating various types of skin cancers.
Recommended Medications
- Pembrolizumab
- Nivolumab
- Chemotherapy creams or lotions
- Cemiplimab (Libtayo)
- Avelumab
- imiquimod
- vismodegib
💊 Drug information is sourced from ChEBI (Chemical Entities of Biological Interest) database. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any medication. Click on any medication name for detailed information.
Differential Diagnosis
The differential diagnosis of integumentary system cancer refers to the process of ruling out other possible causes of a skin-related condition, in order to arrive at a definitive diagnosis of cancer.
According to various medical sources [1-5], the primary differential diagnoses for subcutaneous masses, which can be indicative of skin cancer, include:
- Sebaceous cysts or abscesses
- Lipomas (soft, flesh-colored nodules)
- Benign melanocytic lesions
- Dysplastic nevi
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Metastatic tumors to the skin
- Blue nevi
In addition, other conditions such as extramammary Paget's disease, red or white plaques with eroded anogenital location, can also be considered in the differential diagnosis [6].
It is essential to note that a biopsy is often necessary to confirm the diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma, which is one of the most common types of skin cancer [7]. The genetics of skin cancer, including genes and hereditary syndromes associated with basal cell, squamous cell, and melanoma, can also be relevant in this context [8].
In terms of staging, the cancer can be classified into different stages based on its size and extent. For example, stage 1 means the cancer is 2cm across or smaller, while stage 2 means it has spread to a larger area [9].
References:
[1] Apr 18, 2024 — Differential Diagnoses · Actinic Keratosis · Allergic Contact Dermatitis · Atopic Dermatitis · Atypical Fibroxanthoma · Basal Cell Carcinoma · Benign ...
[2] by JC HIGGINS · 2015 · Cited by 66 — The primary differential diagnosis in a subcutaneous mass is a sebaceous cyst or abscess. Lipomas are soft, flesh-colored nodules that are ...
[3] Oct 14, 2024 — Diagnostic Considerations · Benign melanocytic lesions · Dysplastic nevus · Squamous cell carcinoma · Metastatic tumors to the skin · Blue nevus.
[4] Nov 7, 2014 — Differential diagnoses: Skin malignancy · Nodular malignant melanoma · Nodular basal cell carcinoma · Amelanotic melanoma · Squamous cell carcinoma.
[5] by X Han · 2022 · Cited by 4 — High‐frequency ultrasonic elastography has been shown to be effective in differentiating benign from malignant lesions, including those of the skin.
[6] by JC HIGGINS · 2015 · Cited by 66 — Extramammary Paget's disease is a rare type of skin cancer that can present as red or white plaques with eroded anogenital location.
[7] Oct 14, 2024 — Diagnostic Considerations · Benign melanocytic lesions · Dysplastic nevus · Squamous cell carcinoma · Metastatic tumors to the skin · Blue nevus.
[8] by X Han · 2022 · Cited by 4 — The genetics of skin cancer, including genes and hereditary syndromes associated with basal cell, squamous cell, and melanoma, can be relevant in this context.
[9] Nov 7, 2014 — Differential diagnoses: Skin malignancy · Nodular malignant melanoma · Nodular basal cell carcinoma · Amelanotic melanoma · Squamous cell carcinoma.
Additional Differential Diagnoses
- obsolete extramammary Paget's disease
- Blue nevi
- Sebaceous cysts or abscesses
- Lipomas (soft, flesh-colored nodules)
- Benign melanocytic lesions
- Dysplastic nevi
- Metastatic tumors to the skin
- squamous cell carcinoma
Additional Information
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- https://w3id.org/def/predibionto#has_symptom_1149
- rdf-schema#subClassOf
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- 2011-07-27T02:31:34Z
- oboInOwl#id
- DOID:0060122
- IAO_0000115
- An organ system cancer that is located_in the skin, hair and nails.
- relatedICD
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It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with questions about your medical condition.