Bowen disease (cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma in situ)
Frequency
Uncommon
Age Group
Adults & Elderly
Progression
Chronic
Contagious
No
Bowen disease is an early, non‑invasive form of squamous cell skin cancer where abnormal cells are limited to the top layer of the skin. It shows up as a slowly growing red, scaly patch or plaque that doesn’t heal and can eventually turn into invasive skin cancer if not treated.
This is general information. With a scan you'll receive a detailed, personalized analysis — including individual risk assessment, progression tracking and recommended actions.
There is no single clear cause of Bowen disease, but long‑term sun exposure, radiation, certain chemicals, chronic skin injury, some rare skin diseases, and possibly human papillomavirus (HPV) all increase the risk. Usually several of these factors act together over many years.
Bowen disease itself does not metastasize because it is confined to the top skin layer, but it can turn into invasive squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated. People with Bowen disease also have a higher chance of developing other skin cancers, so long‑term monitoring is important.
The main treatment for Bowen disease is complete removal of the lesion, usually by surgical excision with a safety margin of normal skin. In some cases, especially for smaller lesions or where surgery is difficult, carefully planned radiotherapy or other local treatments may be used under specialist guidance.
You can lower your risk of Bowen disease and its progression by protecting your skin from UV, avoiding chronic skin trauma and harmful chemicals, and following safety rules at work. Regular self‑checks, using tools like our AI skin analysis, and timely visits to a dermatologist for changing spots are key.
If you notice a persistent red, scaly patch or plaque that slowly grows and doesn’t heal, you should see a dermatologist or oncologist for an in‑person exam and possible biopsy. Our AI skin analysis is useful for monitoring, but only a doctor can confirm Bowen disease and treat it properly.
Bowen disease is not an emergency, but it should be assessed and treated by a dermatologist or oncologist within weeks to a few months to prevent progression to invasive skin cancer.
The information provided here is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a dermatologist or physician if you have any concerns.
Lentigo melanoma is a type of melanoma that usually develops on sun‑damaged skin of the face in older adults, often on top of a long‑standing flat brown patch called lentigo maligna (Dubreuilh melanosis). It tends to grow slowly on the surface for years, but once it starts growing deeper it becomes aggressive, can spread to lymph nodes and internal organs, and always needs prompt specialist treatment.
Melanoma is an aggressive skin cancer that develops from pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. It most often appears on the skin but can also occur on the eye, mucous membranes, or under the nails. Early detection and complete surgical removal greatly improve the chances of cure.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common type of skin cancer that grows from the outer layer of the skin and can invade deeper tissues. It usually appears as a scaly, crusted, or ulcerated spot that slowly enlarges and can destroy nearby skin if not treated in time.
Actinic keratosis is a rough, scaly patch on sun‑exposed skin caused by long‑term UV damage. It’s considered a precancerous change because a small portion can turn into squamous cell carcinoma over time, so regular checks and often treatment are recommended.
