Overview
Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers among people; it begins in your skin’s cells. While there are various forms, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma are the most common. These occur primarily when your skin cells have been affected by UV radiation from ultraviolet sun or tanning beds.
Key Pointers:
- Risk Factors: The biggest risk factor that causes skin cancer is exposure to UV radiation. Other risk factors include having lighter skin, sunburns experienced in the past, and a weakened immune system.
- Early Detection: Skin cancer is treatable very easily if diagnosed at an early stage. That’s the reason why screening for skin cancers is very important.
- Prevention: Protection from the sun, protective clothing, and sun avoidance can help prevent skin cancers.
Types of Skin Cancers
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common type of skin cancer, BCC typically develops as a small, shiny bump or a sore that never heals. It rarely, if ever, spreads to other parts of the body.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): This type typically appears as a red, scaly patch, ulcer, or a firm bump. Although it has a better chance of metastasizing than BCC, SCC is still easily treated in its early stages.
- Melanoma: The most dangerous type of skin cancer, melanoma arises from the melanocytes, which are the pigment-producing cells. If the cancer is not detected in the early stages, it may invade other organs quickly.
Causes and Risk Factors
The main cause of skin cancer is the presence of UV radiation, which affects the DNA in the cells and, with time, can lead to abnormal cell growth and cancer. Other causes include:
Key Pointers:
- Sun Exposure: Severe and prolonged sun exposure, especially sunburns, increases the risk.
- Skin Type: People with fair skin, light-colored eyes, and red or blonde hair are more prone to developing skin cancer.
- Family History: A family history of skin cancer can increase the risk of developing the disease.
- Immune System Suppression: Those with weakened immune systems, including organ transplant recipients or people with HIV, are at greater risk.
Signs and Symptoms
Skin cancer comes in several forms, depending on the type:
Key Pointers:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma: Usually appears as a pearly, raised bump or a flat, scaly patch.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma: May appear as a firm, red bump or a scaly, crusted lesion.
- Melanoma: A new mole or a change in an existing mole, which may be asymmetrical, have irregular borders, have varied colors, or be larger than 6 millimeters.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis typically begins with a visual skin examination by a healthcare provider. If suspicious lesions are found, a biopsy (removal of a tissue sample) is performed to determine if cancerous cells are present.
Treatment
Treatment varies according to the type and stage of skin cancer:
Key Pointers:
- Surgical Excision: Most kinds of skin cancers, at least in their early stages, are treated by surgical excision of the tumor.
- Cryotherapy: This is an ablation process wherein liquid nitrogen is sometimes used for freezing small basal and squamous cell carcinomas.
- Radiotherapy: If surgery is risky, then the cancer cells may be attacked through radiation.
- Chemotherapy & Immunotherapy: Administered as adjunct treatment or intervention in large or spread out cases either to destroy cancerous cells or immunize one against the diseases.
Skin Cancer Screening
Regular skin cancer screening is critical in order to detect cases early on, especially in people at higher risk. This includes those who have had frequent sunburns, fair skin or even family history. Screening involves direct examination by medical professionals—they search for abnormal growths or changes in already existing moles. Early detection of skin cancer increases the chances of curing or treating the disease successfully.
