[Etiology of non-melanoma skin cancer].
BACKGROUND
Most countries are experiencing an increased incidence of non-melanoma skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma).


METHODS
Based on relevant literature found by search in the PubMed database, an overview of the present knowledge of the etiology and pathogenesis of non-melanoma skin cancer is given.


RESULTS
DNA damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is the main cause of non-melanoma skin cancer. Failure to repair these genetic alterations leads to unrestrained growth and ultimately tumour formation. In addition, ultraviolet radiation induces a relative immunosuppression in the skin that prevents cutaneous tumour rejection. UV-specific mutations in the p53 tumour suppressor gene probably play an important role through both tumour initiation and cell selection.


CONCLUSIONS
Physicians should advise their patients to avoid unnecessary sun exposure and to use sun protection, including sun screen creams.
Gjersvik
P J
PJ
Det medisinske fakultet Universitetet i Oslo, Hudavdelingen Rikshospitalet, Oslo. petter.gjersvik@rikshospitalet.no
D000818:Animals; D002280:Basal Cell Carcinoma / Q000209:etiology* / Q000235:genetics / Q000473:pathology; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000209:etiology* / Q000235:genetics / Q000473:pathology; D004249:DNA Damage / Q000528:radiation effects; D004260:DNA Repair; D016158:Genes, p53 / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology / Q000528:radiation effects; D006801:Humans; D007165:Immunosuppression Therapy / Q000009:adverse effects; D008954:Models, Biological; D009381:Neoplasms, Radiation-Induced / Q000235:genetics / Q000473:pathology; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000209:etiology* / Q000235:genetics / Q000473:pathology; D014466:Ultraviolet Rays / Q000009:adverse effects