Long-term immunosuppression raises the risk of squamous cell carcinoma and other skin cancers, and these tumours can behave more aggressively. Established practice is regular full-skin examination, daily broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing and shade, and early biopsy of any new, growing, bleeding or non-healing lesion.
Teach the patient to look at their own skin and to come back quickly, rather than at the next scheduled review, if a lesion changes.
- Examine the whole skin, including scalp, ears, lips and the backs of the hands.
- Biopsy a persistent, scaly or non-healing lesion early.
- Advise broad-spectrum sunscreen, a hat and shade, applied every day.
- Give a clear route for patients to bring forward a review when a lesion changes.
Why it matters
Skin cancers in this group grow faster, so the cost of waiting is higher.
Read the rest in the app
You have read your two free briefings this month. The app carries all 27 specialties, every morning, free — and this finding is waiting in it.
Scan to keep reading on your phone. No account needed to start.
Tomorrow morning, before your first patient
One edition a day for dermatology, written by the desk, every claim tied to its paper. Six minutes.
Get the app — free