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Dermatology and Therapy
Published in: Dermatology and Therapy 1/2017

Open Access 01-01-2017 | Review

Skin Cancer: Epidemiology, Disease Burden, Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Therapeutic Approaches

Authors: Zoe Apalla, Dorothée Nashan, Richard B. Weller, Xavier Castellsagué

Published in: Dermatology and Therapy | Special Issue 1/2017

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Abstract

Skin cancer, including both melanoma and non-melanoma, is the most common type of malignancy in the Caucasian population. Firstly, we review the evidence for the observed increase in the incidence of skin cancer over recent decades, and investigate whether this is a true increase or an artefact of greater screening and over-diagnosis. Prevention strategies are also discussed. Secondly, we discuss the complexities and challenges encountered when diagnosing and developing treatment strategies for skin cancer. Key case studies are presented that highlight the practic challenges of choosing the most appropriate treatment for patients with skin cancer. Thirdly, we consider the potential risks and benefits of increased sun exposure. However, this is discussed in terms of the possibility that the avoidance of sun exposure in order to reduce the risk of skin cancer may be less important than the reduction in all-cause mortality as a result of the potential benefits of increased exposure to the sun. Finally, we consider common questions on human papillomavirus infection.
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Metadata
Title
Skin Cancer: Epidemiology, Disease Burden, Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Therapeutic Approaches
Authors
Zoe Apalla
Dorothée Nashan
Richard B. Weller
Xavier Castellsagué
Publication date
01-01-2017
Publisher
Springer Healthcare
Published in
Dermatology and Therapy / Issue Special Issue 1/2017
Print ISSN: 2193-8210
Electronic ISSN: 2190-9172
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s13555-016-0165-y

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Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

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WHO estimates that half of all patients worldwide are non-adherent to their prescribed medication. The consequences of poor adherence can be catastrophic, on both the individual and population level.

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