Peer Reviewed
Feature Article Dermatology

Current therapies for Bowen’s disease

Gilberto Moreno, Adrian Lim, Stephen Shumack
Abstract
Bowen’s disease is a squamous cell carcinoma in situ. GPs plan an important role in identifying and treating patients with this condition and, where appropriate, referring patients to a specialist. Different therapeutic modalities are currently available to GPs to treat Bowen’s disease.
Key Points
  • Bowen’s disease is a squamous cell carcinoma in situ that may become invasive in up to 5% of cases.
  • In Australia, chronic sun exposure is by far the most common cause of Bowen’s disease.
  • The GP’s role is to identify and treat Bowen’s disease according to the practitioner’s resources and experience, or refer the patient to a specialist for definitive management or reassurance.
  • A number of therapies are accessible to the GP to treat Bowen’s disease; however, the outcome is dependant on the practitioner’s skill and the choice of therapy.
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