Question:
is hyperpigmentation in a psoriatic lesion a sign of beginning cancer of the
skin? Does anyone have literature about the subject psoriasis/cancer of the
skin?
Answer:
As far as I know, psoriasis itself doesn't increase the risk of skin
cancer. Some of the treatments however, especially PUVA, are known to be
risk factors.
As Kim just mentioned in another thread, hyperpigmentation is common after
a lesion clears. (Mine acts just the opposite). So, slight darkening of
the skin, even within a lesion, is *not* likely a sign of a tumor.
If, on the other hand, you've done PUVA treatments or you're at risk
because of pale skin plus sun exposure and you've got a curious new mole,
that's something you should get checked out by a dermatologist.
You can find lots of example photos of skin tumors around the net. They
might be useful to get an idea of what to watch out for.
> Does anyone have literature about the subject psoriasis/cancer of the
> skin?
You may want to try searching on Medline to find exactly what you're
looking for. It contains titles and sometimes abstracts of just about
every article and letter in every credible medical journal. You'll find
some quackery that sneaks through the cracks, too. Here's a start:
http://pinch.com/skinny?medline=psoriasis+cancer+hyperpigmentation
Don't let anything steer you away from getting a proper diagnosis if it
seems odd to *you*. A good derm can do a full screening in seconds.
