Bowen disease of the skin

Bowen disease of the skin is a form of squamous cell carcinoma in situ. This condition starts in the top layer of the skin and does not invade deeper tissues. It typically appears on the skin or where the skin meets mucous membranes (mucocutaneous junctions). Both areas exposed to the sun and those that are not can be affected. In some cases, it may present as a single lesion, and in others, multiple patches or plaques, which are red, scaly, and keratotic. The condition is most commonly seen in white males in their 60s to 80s.

People with this condition may develop one or more red, scaly, and thickened patches or plaques on the skin. In the case of Bowen disease on the penis, the lesion may appear as a red, well-defined patch that does not cause any symptoms.

The condition may be linked to long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light and the ingestion of inorganic arsenic. These factors may damage the skin cells and contribute to the development of the abnormal cells seen in Bowen disease.

Treatment often involves complete surgical removal of the lesion, which can be curative. In many cases, removing the affected area is sufficient to treat the condition.

When the lesion is fully removed, the outlook for people with Bowen disease of the skin is generally good. Since the condition is in situ, it has not invaded deeper tissues, which supports a favorable prognosis when treated appropriately.

Information about research is currently limited for this condition.