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Bowens Disease - GP has given me some cream to use, but should I have been referred to a dermatologist?

Boaters
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I've had an itchy area above my ankle for a few months and when it's weeping it takes ages to heal. My GP thinks it's Bowens Disease and has given me some fluorouracil cream to use (I have to say, the dermatoscope pictures on the NHS website look remakably similar to mine). I'm concerned that we've gone straight into treatment rather than a referral to a dermatologist. Should I be worried? I'm on an immunosuppressant. Any thoughts?

  • Hello Boaters

    I'm sorry to hear that you've recently had some concerns about your skin. It's good to hear that you've already seen your GP, who believes that this is Bowen's Disease and has started you on some treatment. 

    We have some information about Bowen's Disease on our website, which may give you some reassurance, but do go back to your GP if you have concerns. 

    Alternatively, you can call our team of nurses on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. I know they will be happy to listen and offer any advice, information and support they can. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

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    Hi Boaters

    I've started finding out about this over a year ago when an itchy patch had persisted for a very long time and some prescribed ointment (not the one you have) didn't work. Was told more recently by my GP that it is Bowen's. Fluorouracil was one of the options he gave me and from what I've read in academic papers it is an appropriate treatment.

    Like Jen said, go back and ask your GP. I know that's easier said than done. I have a follow-up question and have waited 3 weeks to see the GP and ask it (appointment tomorrow). I feel rather like a time waster by taking up an appointment but these things need to be done and nowadays there's no easy way to ask GPs follow-up questions. 

    My experience (hence the follow-up appointment tomorrow) is that teledermatology has confused the issue for me. Mine also looks more like the Bowen's images on the Primary Care Dermatology Society pages.

    Try not to worry (I know that's a ridiculous thing to say). I'm sending a hug.

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