Skin cancer

Types of skin cancer: 

    * Basal cell carcinoma
    * Squamous cell carcinoma
    * Melanoma
    * Mycosis fungoides
    * Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma
    * Kaposi’s sarcoma

Basal cell carcinoma - is the most common type of skin cancer. It typically appears as a small raised bump that has a pearly appearance. It is most commonly seen on areas of the skin that have received excessive sun exposure. These cancers may spread to the skin around the cancer but rarely spread to other parts of the body.

Squamous cell carcinoma - is also seen on the areas of the body that have been exposed to excessive sun (nose, lower lip, hands, and forehead). Often this cancer appears as a firm red bump or ulceration of the skin that does not heal. Squamous cell carcinomas can spread to lymph nodes in the area.

Melanoma - is a skin cancer that arises from the melanocytes in the skin. These cancers typically arise as pigmented (colored) lesions in the skin with an irregular shape, irregular border, and multiple colors. It is the most harmful of all the skin cancers, because it can spread to other sites in the body. Fortunately, most melanomas have a very high cure rate when identified and treated early.

Other nonmelanoma skin cancers:

Other skin cancers include Mycosis fungoides, Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma, Kaposi’s sarcoma and Paget’s disease. They are found less than 1% cases.

risk factors for skin cancer

    *  Having fair skin, red or blond hair
    * Having light-colored eyes
    * Sunburning easily
    * Having many moles, freckles or birthmarks
    * Working or playing outside
    * Being in the sun a lot as a child
    * Having had a serious sunburn
    * Having family members with skin cancer
    * Tanning in the sun or with a sunlamp

Prevention

    *  Avoid the sun, especially from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., when the sun's rays are the strongest.
    * Don't use tanning booths or sunlamps.
    * Wear protective clothing and hats.
    * Check your skin yourself every month for signs of skin cancer.
    * If you see an area on your skin that looks unusual, ask your family doctor about it.

Article Tags: Skin Cancer, Skin Cancer   

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