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Who gets skin cancer...and whyThe primary cause of skin cancer is ultraviolet radiation- most often from the sun, but also from artificial sources like sun lamps and tanning booths. In fact, researchers believe that our quest for the perfect tan, an increase in outdoor activities, and perhaps the thinning of the earth's ozone layer are behind the alarming rise we're now seeing in skin cancers. Anyone can get skin cancer-no matter what your skin type, race, or age, on matter where you live or what you do. But your risk is greater if...
Types of skin cancerBy far the most common type of skin cancer is basal cell carcinoma. Fortunately, it's the least dangerous kind--it tends to grow slowly and rarely spreads beyond its original site. Though basal cell carcinoma is seldom life-threatening, if left untreated it can grow deep beneath the skin and into the underlying tissue and bone, causing serious damage. Squamous cell carcinoma is the next most common kind of skin cancer, frequently appearing on the lips, face, or ears. It sometimes spreads to distant sites, including lymph nodes and internal organs. Squamous cell carcinoma can become life threatening if it's not treated. A third form of skin cancer, malignant melanoma, is the least common, but its incidence is increasing rapidly, especially in the United States. Malignant melanoma is also the most dangerous type of skin cancer. If discovered early enough, it can be completely cured. If it's not treated quickly, however, malignant melanoma may spread throughout the body and is often deadly. Other skin growthsTwo other common types of skin growths are moles and keratoses. Moles are clusters of heavily pigmented skin cells, either flat or raised above the skin surface. While most pose no danger, some- particularly large moles present at birth, or those with mottles colors and poorly defined boarders- may develop into malignant melanoma. Moles are frequently removed for cosmetic reasons, or because they're constantly irritated by clothing or jewelry. Solar or actinic keratoses are rough, red or brown, scaly patches on the skin. They are usually found on areas exposed to the sun, and sometimes develop into squamous cell cancer. Recognizing skin cancerBasal and squamous cell carcinomas can vary widely in appearance. The cancer may begin as a small, white or pink nodule or bump; it can be smooth and shiny, waxy, or pitted on the surface. Or it might appear as a red spot that's rough, dry, or scaly...a firm, red lump that may form a crust...a crusted group of nodules...a sore that bleeds or doesn't heal after two to four weeks...or a white patch that looks like scar tissue. Malignant melanoma is usually signaled by a change in the size, shape, or color or an existing mole, or as a new growth on normal skin. Watch for the "ABCD" warning signs of melanoma:
If all these variables sound confusing, the most important thing to remember is this: Get to know your skin and examine it regularly, from the top of your head to the soles of your feet. (Don't forget your back.) If you notice any unusual changes on any part of your body, have a doctor check it out.
Diagnosis and treatmentSkin cancer is diagnosis by removing all or part of the growth and examining its cells under a microscope. It can be treated by a number of methods, depending on the type of cancer, its stage of growth, and its location on your body. Most skin cancers are removed surgically, by a plastic surgeon or a dermatologist. If the cancer is small, the procedure can be done quickly and easily as an outpatient or in our facility. If the cancer is large, however, or it has spread to the lymph glands or elsewhere in the body, major surgery may be required. Moh's surgery, a special procedure in which the cancer is shaved off one layer at a time may be necessary. A word about reconstructionReconstructive techniques range from a simple closure to a complex rearrangement of tissue using muscle and skin flaps. At times a skin graft may be necessary to close large defects. PreventionYour physician can not prevent a recurrence. It's up to you to reduce your risks by changing old habits and developing ones.
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Skin cancer is
the most common form of cancer in the United States. More than 500,000 new
cases are reported each year- and the incidence is rising faster than any other
type of cancer. While skin cancer can be found on any part of the body,
about 80% appear on the face, head or neck, where they can be disfiguring as
well as dangerous.
