Cutaneous carcinoma: clinical and epidemiological characteristics of adults in a referral hospital in Lima, Peru, 2020-2023

Vela-Ruiz J.M.; Reyes-Hernández N.A.; Cotrina-Zurita L.; Hurtado-Rubio C.; Becerra-Flores J.C.; Hernández Patiño I. · Cirugia Plastica Ibero-Latinoamericana (2025) · DOI: 10.4321/s0376-78922025000300008

Resumen

Background and objective. Cutaneous neoplasia has a high prevalence worldwide and is usually related to various risk factors, such as ultraviolet sun exposure, outdoor work, and aging. Additionally, severity is involved and usually increases annually. Our objective is to determine the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of non-melanoma skin cancer in adults treated in the Oncology Department of a Class II-2 hospital in Lima, Peru. This study aims to generate local casuistry that allows for the clinical presentation patterns and epidemiological distribution, contributing to the strengthening of prevention strategies, early diagnosis, and comprehensive management of this cancer in the hospital setting. Methods. An observational, descriptive study was conducted, reviewing the medical records of 52 patients from the medical Oncology Outpatient Clinic of Hospital San Juan Lurigancho, Lima, Peru, between 2020 and 2023. Results. Fron 52 patients, we recorded 82.7% (n=43) of basal cell carcinoma and 17.3% (n=9) of squamous cell carcinoma. Fifty percent of the total non-melanoma skin cancer cases were 70 years of age. The most frequent affected sex was male. Conclusions. Compared to 2021, a nearly three-fold increase in the diagnosis of non-melanoma skin cancer was observed. Basal cell carcinoma predominated over squamous cell carcinoma, with the nodular pattern being the most frequent subtype. Itching and pain were present in a considerable number of patients. The most frequent location were the face and nasal region.

Instituciones: Universidad Ricardo Palma