Dermatologic neoplasms: a perspective from Makurdi, North Central Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Skin cancers are the commonest malignancies in Caucasians but are relatively less common in dark skinned persons. They are strongly linked to ultraviolet exposure, skin melanin content, and immune status.Methods: This study reviewed all histologically diagnosed skin neoplasms at the Federal Medical Centre, Makurdi from January 2012 to December 2016.Results: A total of 84 neoplasms were seen, with 42 (50%) being malignant. Of the malignant lesions, Squamous cell carcinomas were the most frequent (45.2%), followed by melanomas (23.8%). The lower limb was the most frequent site of both benign and malignant neoplasms, while a male to female ratio of 0.88:1 was observed.Conclusions: A relatively high UV radiation intensity, combined with a predominance of outdoor agricultural based activities, alongside chronic ulcerative/inflammatory lesions and a high HIV burden all indicate a need for widespread enlightenment and screening campaigns to prevent occurrence of skin cancers and aid early diagnosis.