Nonmelanoma skin cancers in the elderly

Clin Geriatr Med. 1989 Feb;5(1):161-70.

Abstract

This article discusses the relationship between aging and development of nonmelanoma skin cancer. Possible age-related risk factors for development of such cancers are cumulative exposure to ultraviolet irradiation from the sun, decreased DNA repair capacity, decreased immunosurveillance, reduced melanocyte density, and altered dermal matrix. Clinical features of basal-cell carcinoma, squamous-cell carcinoma, and keratoacanthoma are discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aging
  • Carcinoma, Basal Cell* / diagnosis
  • Carcinoma, Basal Cell* / therapy
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell* / diagnosis
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Keratoacanthoma* / diagnosis
  • Keratoacanthoma* / therapy
  • Keratosis / etiology
  • Keratosis / therapy
  • Skin Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Skin Neoplasms* / therapy