Sufferers from IBD have long been well aware that they run an increased risk of bowel cancer and that the risk of lymphoma is increased by certain immunosuppressant drugs. Two recent studies one from Denmark and one from the Mayo clinic suggests that there may be an increased risk of skin cancers as well including melanoma (Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2014 12 274-6).
The Danish study spanned 32 years and included 13,756 patients with IBD. Both Crohn’s disease (CD) and Ulcerative Colitis (UC) were associated with an increased risk of skin cancer and melanoma was increased in CD but not UC. The review from the Mayo clinic included 12 studies spanning 67 years and compared 172,837 patients. 179 cases of melanoma were reported which represents a 37% increase in the melanoma risk in UC and CD.
Although the most recent data was limited, there seemed to be no increase in melanoma risk after the introduction of biological agents such as Infliximab and nor did there appear to be any increased risk with drugs such as Azathioprine and 6-MP.
These results are early and their full importance has yet to be assessed. It would seem important however that patients know about the risk so that they take due care of their skin avoiding over-exposure to the sun and routinely examining themselves for any change in skin or moles. This is particularly true of younger patients (less than 24) with a fair skin. If you have any doubt, you must ask your doctor’s advice.
This article was first published on the original crohns.org.uk blog. Research has moved on since, so please check current advice with your IBD team.