Types of Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S., and the main types include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
Basal Cell and Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are often grouped together as non-melanoma skin cancers. These cancers form in the top layer of the skin and usually appear in areas exposed to the sun, like the face, ears, neck, or hands.
• Basal cell carcinoma often looks like a pearl-like bump or a flesh-colored, round growth.
• Squamous cell carcinoma may appear as a red, firm bump, a scaly patch, or a sore that doesn’t heal.
Both types grow slowly and are treatable when caught early, but if left untreated, they can spread deeper into the body, potentially affecting bones, lymph nodes, or other organs.
Melanoma
Melanoma is the deadliest type of skin cancer. It can spread to lymph nodes and internal organs if not treated early. It often starts as a mole that changes in size, shape, or color or appears as a new dark spot.
Use the ABCDE rule to check for melanoma:
• Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other.
• Border: Edges are uneven or blurred.
• Color: Uneven colors or multiple shades.
• Diameter: Larger than a pencil eraser (6 mm), though melanomas can be smaller.
• Evolving: Changes in size, shape, or color over time.
Early detection is critical, as melanoma is easier to treat before it spreads.
Rare Types of Skin Cancer
Less common forms of skin cancer include Merkel cell carcinoma, which can grow quickly and spread, and dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans.
Risk Factors for Skin Cancer
You may be at higher risk of developing skin cancer if:
• You have fair skin or burn easily in the sun.
• You don’t use sunscreen or protective clothing regularly.
• You have a history of tanning bed use or sunburns.
• You have precancerous growths (like actinic keratoses).
• You have a history of HPV or other skin infections.
Signs and Symptoms
Keep an eye out for any new or unusual spots, including:
• Growths or sores that don’t heal.
• Scaly or rough patches of skin.
• Changes in moles or dark spots.
If you notice anything unusual, schedule a skin check with a dermatologist.
Treating Skin Cancer
Treatment options depend on the type and severity of the cancer. Common methods include:
• Medications: Topical treatments like Imiquimod or 5-FU for early or precancerous spots.
• Cryotherapy: Freezing off precancerous lesions with liquid nitrogen.
• Excision: Removing the cancer and surrounding tissue surgically.
• Mohs Surgery: A precise method to remove cancer while preserving healthy tissue, with cure rates over 97%.
• Radiation Therapy: Used for certain cases or in older adults.
Preventing Skin Cancer
The best ways to protect yourself include:
• Avoiding tanning beds.
• Using sunscreen daily with SPF 30 or higher and reapplying every 2 hours.
• Wearing protective clothing and wide-brim hats.
• Staying in the shade during peak sun hours (10 AM–4 PM).
• Checking your skin regularly for changes or new spots.
By taking these steps, you can lower your risk of developing skin cancer.
Skin Cancer Survival Rates
Skin cancer is very treatable if detected early:
• Non-melanoma cancers (basal and squamous cell) have high cure rates when treated early.
• For melanoma, the 5-year survival rate is:
• 99% if detected before spreading to lymph nodes.
• 68% if it spreads to nearby lymph nodes.
• 30% if it spreads to distant organs.
If you’re concerned about a spot on your skin, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment with Paragon Skin toda to ensure early detection and treatment.
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