Skin cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer worldwide, with incidences rising each year. As per experts like Sundoctors, early detection through awareness and vigilance provides the best odds for successful treatment. Understanding the most widespread varieties of skin cancer equips you to best identify signs in yourself and loved ones. Arm yourself with knowledge of these leading skin cancer types to catch them early.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
The most commonly diagnosed skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma (BCC) develops in the basal cells lining the deepest layer of the epidermis. Overexposure to UV rays often triggers these abnormal growths, typically on the head, neck and arms. Fortunately, BCC rarely spreads to other organs when identified and removed early. Still, leaving untreated can lead to considerable skin damage and disfigurement.
Appearing as open sores, shiny pink growths, scaly red patches or raised, translucent bumps; BCCs often resemble wounds that won’t heal. The key is noticing any unusual skin changes and getting checked by a dermatologist, especially recurring growths where previously biopsied. Though highly treatable, BCC requires examination to determine the best procedure whether surgical excision, electrodesiccation and curettage or topical creams.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) arises in the squamous cells making up the outer layer of skin. Like BCCs, excessive UV exposure and cumulative sun damage can trigger SCC growths. The face, ears, neck, hands and arms are frequent locations. While slow-growing and seldom fatal when treated early, invasive SCC can penetrate fat, muscle and bone if neglected.
SCC appears as elevated growths, open sores, scaly red patches and elevated growths with a central dip or wart-like lesions. The key distinguishing sign is hyperkeratosis with crusty, not ulcerated tissue. Actinic keratoses (AKs) – scaly patches or spots – are precancerous lesions signaling advanced sun damage that can develop into SCC if left unchecked. Treating AKs prevents progression into more serious forms of skin cancer down the road.
Melanoma
The most serious skin cancer, melanoma develops when unrepaired DNA damage to skin cells triggers mutations, causing malignant cells to proliferate rapidly. While melanoma represents only a small fraction of skin cancer cases, it accounts for the majority of skin cancer deaths with the ability to invade organs. When detected early however, melanoma is almost 100% treatable.
Melanoma can arise anywhere on the body including areas with little to no sun exposure. Seek evaluation of any suspicious moles exhibiting asymmetry, irregular borders, varying colors, large diameter or evolving size, shape or coloration. Catching changes when melanoma is restricted to the outermost skin layer dramatically increases survival odds. Biopsies determine melanoma depth for staging and proper surgical treatment.
Conclusion
The prevalence of skin cancer continues rising, making awareness and early detection imperative. Performing regular self-exams and scheduling annual full body skin checks truly save lives. Know your own skin and notice any odd growths, sores and spots, particularly those increasing in size or changing rapidly. Recognize the hallmark characteristics of basal, squamous and melanoma skin cancers and seek dermatology evaluations when anything seems amiss. Skilled dermatologic assessment and treatment provide the best defense against skin cancer. Catching cases early plays a pivotal role in more positive outcomes.
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