Cancroid

Cancroid is a term historically used to describe a type of skin cancer that resembles a carcinoma but is less malignant. The term is now largely obsolete and has been replaced by more specific classifications of skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

Classification

Cancroid was once used to describe tumors that had characteristics of both benign and malignant growths. Modern medical terminology has refined the classification of skin cancers into more precise categories, including:

• Basal cell carcinoma
• Squamous cell carcinoma
• Melanoma

Symptoms

The symptoms of cancroid, similar to other types of skin cancer, may include:

• A persistent sore or ulcer that does not heal
• A growth or lump on the skin that may be red, pink, or white
• Changes in the appearance of a mole or skin lesion

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of skin cancers that were once classified as cancroid typically involves:

• Biopsy of the affected tissue
• Dermatoscopy to examine the skin lesion
• Histopathology to study the microscopic structure of the tissue

Treatment

Treatment options for skin cancers that were historically referred to as cancroid include:

• Surgical excision
• Radiation therapy
• Cryotherapy
• Topical chemotherapy

Prognosis

The prognosis for skin cancers varies depending on the type and stage of the cancer. Early detection and treatment generally lead to better outcomes.

Related Pages

• Skin cancer
• Basal cell carcinoma
• Squamous cell carcinoma
• Melanoma
• Biopsy
• Dermatoscopy
• Histopathology