Malignant Skin Tumours in Jos University Teaching Malignant Skin Tumours in Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria (Hospital Based Study)

Abstract

Background: The incidence of melanoma has been on the increase in Australia and Asia but in Africa, many skin cancers arise from chronic ulcers and burns. Methods: A retrospective histopathologic study of malignant skin tumours seen at the University of Jos Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria in 5 years. Results: A total of 128 malignant skin tumours were recorded during the period. Squamous cell carcinoma accounted for 51.2%, malignant melanoma, 24.2% and Kaposi's sarcoma 10.9%. Other tumours included fibrosarcoma, malignant fibrous histiocytoma and skin adnexal tumours. Skin cancer occurred in a younger age group compared to developed countries. The tumours presented either as nodular growth or non-healing, long-standing ulcers with an average duration of 5 - 10 years. This is in contrast to Europe where the duration of ulcer is 30 - 40 years. Conclusion: Skin cancers are not uncommon in our environment. Early treatment of ulcers, including grafting may improve the quality of life in these patients.