Pathogenesis (disease development)
Bowen disease is an intraepidermal carcinoma in situ (literally, “cancer in situ”) of the skin. Histologically, atypical dyskeratotic cells are seen.
Queyrat’s erythroplasia is considered Bowen’s disease of the transitional mucosa. It is also a carcinoma in situ.
In the pathogenesis, infection with HPV type 16 is of great importance.
Etiology (Causes)
Biographic causes
- Genetic predisposition leading to increased UV sensitivity.
- Age – older age (from the age of 70).
- Skin type – fair-skinned people
- Occupations – occupations with high exposure to the sun (eg in agriculture).
Behavioral causes
- UV light exposure (sun; solarium).
Environmental pollution – intoxications (poisonings).
- Arsenic
- Sun exposure
Note: Bowen’s disease also occurs in non-light-exposed areas such as the lower legs. There it is manifested by scaly reddish plaques (areal or plate-like substance proliferation of the skin).
