[ ARC forum 2 ]

Re: Dermatologist's views

Written by jason MF at 20 Sep 2002 15:30:31:

As an answer to: Re: Dermatologist's views written by Paul B. at 20 Sep 2002 14:07:15:

>> What does it mean when your biopsy report say that the the affected area has squamous cell?
>Well, normal skin and even mucous membranes, are composed of squamous or flattened cells (they start out a certain size and dry out or desiccate, losing height but not width or depth, partly because the skin is generally under some resting tension). Mucous membranes may however change to resemble the tougher external skin, which is called "squamous metaplasia", but if the growth becomes abnormal and develops changes suggesting progress toward a cancer, this is called "squamous dysplasia"

>> So it would be a good idea for regular check up with dermatologist?
>If you have been diagnosed with LSA, yes. That's certainly what I was told (granted - the fellow who told me was - a specialist dermatologist!).

When going for a check up to the dermatologist, should one request for a biopsy or a visual inspection would be good enough to see if LSA has got worsen or better or leading towards cancer ?

>> Can irritation actually cause BXO ?
>Not too sure. Insofar as LSA is genetic, part of the "cause" is pre-determined. But then it occurs in certain areas, so there must be a "trigger factor" in those areas, and irritation, either mechanical (rubbing, scratching), chemical (soaps, perfumes, deodorants, clothing dyes, tobacco tars), or from infection (viral or bacterial), may well be the trigger factor.


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