Epithelioma is an abnormal growth of the epithelium, which is the layer of tissue that covers the surfaces of organs and other structures of the body.^[1]

Epitheliomas can be benign growths or malignant carcinomas. They are classified according to the specific type of epithelial cells that are affected.^[1]

The most common epitheliomas are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma (skin cancers).^[1]

Treatment usually involves surgically removing the tumor and affected tissue. Also used is cryosurgery and radiotherapy.^[2]

The prognosis varies dramatically, depending on the type and stage at the time of treatment. However, the most common epitheliomas are very easily treated and rarely result in death.^[2] The condition did, however, take the life of Scottish golfer Willie Dunn, Sr. in 1878 at a time when the ailment was likely not fully understood.^[3]

• Mule spinners' cancer