CUTANEOUS MALIGNANCY IN THE NIGERIAN ALBINO: A STUDY IN A TERTIARY URBAN HOSPITAL IN SOUTHERN NIGERIA
*Dr. Cynthia R. Madubuko and Emmanuel P. Kubeyinje
ABSTRACT
Background: Oculocutaneous albinism is an autosomal recessive disorder of pigmentation involving the skin, eyes, and hair. It is characterized by reduced or complete lack of melanin production. Melanin is protective against the harmful effects of the tropical sun. A lack of it predisposes the melanin deficient skin to cutaneous cancers. Aim: It determined the prevalence and pattern of cutaneous cancers in people with albinism living in Benin city. It also determined the relationship if any between cutaneous malignancy in them and the type of occupation, as well as use of sun protection methods. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study conducted via a dermatological outreach albino clinic in the University of Benin Teaching Hospital in Southern Nigeria. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data on sociodemographic characteristics. Also data regarding sun related dermatoses was collected and patients were examined thoroughly for cutaneous malignancy. Dermoscopy was used to boost diagnostic accuracy and skin biopsies were done to confirm diagnosis. Results: The prevalence of skin cancers was 9(12.4%) in the albino population and nil in their controls.p<0.01. Squamous cell carcinoma was the most common skin cancer observed in 8(11%) of the albinos.Conclusion: Cutaneous cancers are common in patients with albinism.The use of sun protective measures may reduce its incidence in them.
Keywords: Albinism; Cutaneous cancers, Melanin
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