Skin cancer is a type of cancer that forms in the skin cells. Let us dive into the various types, causes, treatments, and prevention.
Introduction
We found out that the majority of the time, skin exposed to the sun develops abnormal skin cell growth, which is known as skin cancer. However, this prevalent type of cancer can also develop on skin parts that aren’t often exposed to sunlight.
Melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma are the three main forms of skin cancer.
Also, by reducing or eliminating your exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, you can lower your risk of developing skin cancer. Early detection of skin cancer can be achieved by regularly monitoring your skin for any unusual changes. Your chances of receiving successful skin cancer therapy are highest when the disease is discovered early.
There are several types of skin cancer, each with distinct characteristics, symptoms, causes, and treatment options. The three main types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma.
Overview
Areas of skin exposed to the sun, such as the scalp, face, lips, ears, neck, chest, arms, and hands, as well as the legs in women, are the main sites where skin cancer occurs. However, it can also develop in places of your body that are seldom exposed to daylight, such as your palms, the space under your fingernails or toenails, and your vagina.
All skin tones, particularly those with darker complexions, are susceptible to skin cancer. People with dark skin tones are more prone to develop melanoma on parts of their bodies like the palms of their hands and the soles of their feet that are not often exposed to the sun.
Skin Cancer | Types, Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
1. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC):
Typically, basal cell carcinoma develops on sun-exposed body parts like the face or neck. The most prevalent kind of skin cancer is this one. Those with fair skin are more likely to get BCC. This type of skin cancer also affects people with colored skin. It’s critical to diagnose and treat BCC as soon as possible. BCC has a profound growth potential. If allowed to spread, it can injure and deform people by penetrating the bones and nerves.
Symptoms:
- Pearly or waxy bump
- Flat, flesh-colored, or brown scar-like lesion
- A pink growth with elevated borders and a crusted indentation in the center
- An open sore that does not heal, or a recurring sore
Causes:
- Ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure from the sun or tanning beds
- Fair skin, light-colored eyes, and blond or red hair
- History of frequent sun exposure or sunburns
Treatment:
- Surgical excision
- Mohs surgery
- Curettage and electrodesiccation
- Topical medications
2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC):
Skin parts that are exposed to the sun, such as the hands, ears, and face, are most commonly affected by squamous cell carcinoma. In regions that aren’t frequently exposed to the sun, people with darker skin tones are more susceptible to developing squamous cell carcinoma. SCC can be kept from becoming deeply embedded and spreading to other parts of the body by receiving early diagnosis and treatment.
Other sources of SCC Skin Cancer
Malignant skin growths might give rise to SCC. Actinic keratoses (AKs) are dry, scaly patches or spots that some people get on their skin. An AK, also brought on by excessive sun exposure, is not skin cancer. An AK is a precancerous skin growth that has the potential to develop into squamous cell carcinoma, a frequent form of skin cancer. AK recipients typically have fair skin.
AKs typically develop on areas of the skin, like the head, neck, hands, and forearms, that receive a lot of sun exposure. Treatment is crucial since an AK has the potential to develop into a form of skin cancer.
Symptoms:
- Persistent, scaly red patches
- Firm-raised nodules or growths with a central depression
- Open sores that may crust or bleed
- Wart-like growths
Causes:
- Prolonged exposure to UV radiation
- History of chronic skin inflammation or injury
- Weakened immune system
Treatment:
- Surgical excision
- Mohs surgery
- Electrodessication and curettage
- Radiation therapy
- Topical medications
3. Melanoma:
Anywhere on your body, in skin that is normally healthy, or in a mole that has already developed and turned malignant, can develop melanoma. Men with melanoma typically develop it on their faces or trunks. The lower legs are where this kind of cancer typically appears in females. Melanoma is a skin cancer that can affect both men and women who have not had sun exposure.
All skin tones are susceptible to melanoma. Melanoma under fingernails or toenails, or on the palms or soles, is more common in those with darker skin tones.
Symptoms:
- Asymmetrical moles or lesions
- Irregular borders
- Varied colors within the lesion
- Large diameter (greater than 6mm)
- Evolution or changes in size, shape, or color
Causes:
- Intense, intermittent exposure to UV radiation
- History of sunburns
- Family history of melanoma
- Presence of atypical moles
Treatment:
- Surgical excision
- Sentinel lymph node biopsy
- Immunotherapy
- Targeted therapy
- Chemotherapy
Other Uncommon Skin Cancers
Sebaceous Gland Carcinoma
The skin’s oil glands are the source of this rare and severe malignancy. Sebaceous gland carcinomas can form anywhere, but they most commonly occur on the eyelid, where they are commonly misdiagnosed as other eyelid issues. Typically, they appear as hard, painless nodules.
Kaposi Sarcoma.
This uncommon type of skin cancer appears as red or purple spots on the skin or mucous membranes and starts in the skin’s blood vessels.
People with compromised immune systems, such as those with AIDS, and those on drugs that impair their natural immunity, like those who have received organ transplants, are at higher risk of developing Kaposi sarcoma.
Older males of Italian or Eastern European Jewish descent and young men residing in Africa are also at higher risk of developing Kaposi sarcoma.
Merkel Cell Carcinoma.
Firm, glossy nodules in hair follicles and on or just beneath the skin are a sign of Merkel cell cancer. The head, neck, and trunk are the most common locations for Merkel cell cancer.
Prevention Tips for Skin Cancer:
- Sun Protection:
- Use sunscreen with a high SPF.
- Wear protective clothing, including hats and sunglasses.
- Seek shade during peak sun hours.
- Regular Skin Checks:
- Perform self-examinations of your skin.
- Schedule regular skin cancer screenings with a dermatologist.
- Avoid Tanning Beds:
- Tanning beds emit harmful UV radiation and should be avoided.
- Early Detection:
- Report any moles or new skin growth changes to a healthcare professional promptly.
It’s important to note that early detection and treatment significantly improve the prognosis for skin cancer. If you notice any suspicious changes in your skin, consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. Regular check-ups with a dermatologist are crucial for individuals at a higher risk of skin cancer.