Fig. 108
Epithelioma.
More deeply seated carcinomas of the skin infiltrate in both directions alike, and grow downward, sometimes in cylinder form, thus giving rise to a clinical type called cylindroma. Lenticular carcinoma is also described as differing from the ordinary epithelioma, in that it exhibits a true alveolar structure. This form is rare, and is distinguished from the common form by the absence of the so-called “pearly bodies,” which characterize common epithelioma. The lenticular form is most often seen in recurring cancer of the breast, or in the vicinity of scars showing where deep-seated cancer had existed.
Diagnosis.
—Epithelioma in its various forms should be distinguished from skin lesions due to syphilis and tuberculosis. A diagnostic table has been given (see [p. 293]) by which diagnosis as between it and lupus may ordinarily be made. The lesions of syphilis are usually multiple and accompanied by other manifestations which stamp their character. There is, moreover, usually a history which will be suggestive if not actually helpful. In cases of actual doubt, as upon the tongue and elsewhere, the therapeutic test may be applied. If resorted to, it should be vigorously made. When mercurial inunction is thoroughly practised, and the internal administration of the iodides effects no improvement within three weeks, the hypothesis of syphilis may be abandoned.
All cancerous lesions tend to advance and to destroy in spite of all local measures. There never appears about them any indication of a tendency toward cicatrization, and, while the edges of malignant ulcers may be thickened and everted, the more central portions are always excavated. They cause, moreover, involvement of the adjoining lymphatics, although this may be said as well of syphilitic and tuberculous lesions.
Treatment.
—Concerning the treatment of epithelioma and other malignant skin diseases there is little to be said which has not already been summarized in the general considerations concerning the treatment of cancer. Radical excision of the original lesion, in its early stages, will usually lead to final recovery. If there be involvement of the lymphatics the indication is made thereby more positive for cleaning out all infected areas, while, at the same time, the prognosis is rendered less favorable. There comes a time in the history of all these cases when excision can be recommended only as a palliative measure, i. e., when it may be regarded as useless. In the more hopeless cases benefit will but rarely be obtained from the use of x-rays, ultraviolet light, or radium.