Issue 7/2026
Kafelova, A., Mateeva, V. Botev, I. Mateev, G. Drenovska, K.
Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Medical University – Sofia
Cutaneous malignancies are broadly categorized into melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers. Although melanoma is responsible for the majority of skin cancer-related mortality, non-melanoma skin tumors remain the most frequently diagnosed malignant diseases in human pathology. Most of the latter are keratinocyte neoplasias – basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, but the group also includes precancerous and in situ lesions such as actinic keratosis, Bowen‘s disease and erythroplasia of Queyrat.
Keratoacanthoma is currently regarded as part of the spectrum of well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma. Merkel cell carcinoma and various carcinomas of adnexal origin are significantly rarer.
This review summarizes the clinical, dermoscopic, and histopathological characteristics of the most common keratinocytic skin neoplasms. Particular emphasis is placed on major diagnostic criteria, histopathological correlates of dermoscopic structures, differential diagnostic pitfalls, and practical aspects relevant to everyday clinical practice.
Кey words: dermoscopy, non melanoma skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma.
Address for correspondence:
Dr. Aylin Kafelova
Department of Dermatology and Venereology,
MU – Sofia UMHAT “Alexandrovska” EAD
1, „St. Georgi Sofiiski”, Str.
1431, Sofia
e-mail: dr.aylin.kafelova@gmail.com