Pattern of Skin cancer at the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Enugu from Jan. 1996 to Dec. 2005

Abstract

Background: In our environment, skin cancers constitute a significant socio-economic burden to both patients and healthcare providers.
Objectives: The objectives of this study are to characterize the pattern of presentation of skin cancers, and highlight lateness of presentation and the consequent inability to achieve cure with simple treatment modalities like complete excision and primary closure.
Patients and Methods: A retrospective study over a l0 year period showed that 80 patients were treated for skin cancers at the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Enugu.
Results: Males accounted for 5I.3% and females 48.8%. Mean age at presentation was 45 years with a range of l8 to 78 years. 85.0% of primary lesions started spontaneously while 8.8% and 2.5% followed trauma and burns respectively. Only 21.3% of the patients presented earlier than 12 months of occurrence while 78.7% of patients
presented with lesions ranging from one to 58 years in duration. 51.3% of' the cancers were squamous cell carcinomas and 7.5% were Kaposi sarcomas. 33.3% of' the patients were albinos. Conclusion: Sun-protection in form of application of sun shields and screens, staying indoors, wearing sun protective goggles, hats and clothing that cover the body should be undertaken by albinos. Public enlightenment towards early recognition of skin cancer will enhance early presentation and ensure adequate and curative treatment.

Keywords: Skin cancers, squamous cell carcinoma, late presentation of skin cancer.

Nigerian Journal of Plastic Surgery Vol. 4 (1) 2008: pp. 13-18