Cancer is a word that many of us fear. Hearing that you or someone you love has developed skin cancer can cause your mind to jump to conclusions of shock and worry. However, which types of skin cancer are dangerous and how can skin cancer be prevented? There are certain types of skin cancer that vary in severity and can be prevented with different treatments.
What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer is what happens when the cells that make up the dermis start to turn into cancerous cells that divide uncontrollably. It is the most common type of cancer that occurs in the United States even today. Although skin cancer mostly occurs in the dermis exposed to sunlight, it can also form in the lower layers of the dermis and be more complex to identify.
Types of skin cancer and possibilities for procedures
While there are many different types of skin cancer, there are 4 common types that will be discussed. These are the signs, indications and treatments for each type of common skin cancer.
Basal cell carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma is among the most common and least worrisome types of skin cancer. It is usually performed on areas of the dermis that are most exposed to sunlight, such as the scalp, face and neck.
It appears as a subtly transparent bump in the dermis, although it can also take other forms. Certain signs of this type of cancer can include:
• Pearly white bumps in the dermis, or a bump of skin with a translucent exterior; mostly said to have visible blood vessels below and tend to break or bleed
• Brown, black, or blue sores with a high translucent border
• Red scaly patches on the back or chest.
• White waxy sores with no visible border
While basal cell carcinoma isn't bad, you should contact a doctor if you notice any sudden changes in an existing growth or if a previously eradicated growth has returned.
If you find a lump in the dermis, don't worry: basal cell carcinoma can mostly be removed with a simple skin biopsy or by removing the small amount of cancerous skin. Cases of basal cell carcinoma spreading or turning into other cancers are rare, but you should still talk to your doctor about this to be sure. Johnny Gurgen, MD, specializes in removing skin cancers and can help ensure your skin is healthy again.
Melanoma
Melanoma is a much more serious type of skin cancer that can occur anywhere on the body, although it mostly occurs on surfaces of the dermis that remain exposed to sunlight. Individuals most at risk of developing melanoma are women under 40 years of age, although anyone can get it.
Melanomas often start out as changes to existing moles, such as growths or darkened skin. However, they can also appear suddenly in the common dermis.
There are steps you can take to see if your mole is normal and healthy. Check if:
1. Has an irregular edge or shape
2. Clearly changed color
3. Has grown well over 6 millimeters in diameter
4. Change in appearance, size, or feel, such as becoming itchy or painful over time
If any of the above situations are true, you should see a doctor as it could be melanoma. It's critical to identify this class early so it doesn't go unnoticed.
Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer
Non-melanoma skin cancer is a broad term used to explain any cancer other than melanoma. This covers any rarer type of skin cancer and as such has a range of procedure possibilities depending on the type of cancer involved.
These cancers usually need to be removed by surgery; If you've noticed strange changes in your skin that you can't describe, talk to your doctor about non-melanoma skin cancer today.
Dermal squamous cell carcinoma
Although not fatal, dermal squamous cell carcinoma can be a particularly aggressive form of cancer that can cause serious illness if left untreated. This is because it tends to form in deeper layers of the dermis.
This type of cancer is also prone to spread throughout the dermis and also to other parts of the body. if you provide account new, painful red sores on the skin or in the mouth that don't go away on their own, talk to your doctor right away.
How to prevent skin cancer
Fortunately, there are many different ways to protect yourself against skin cancer. Certain lifestyle changes and countermeasures can help protect you from skin cancer, such as:
• Stay away from direct sunlight, tanning beds and other forms of ultraviolet light.
• Wear sunscreen all year round as you are independent against the wind
• Wear protective clothing to avoid sunbathing
• Check your skin frequently for changes or variations in spots or bumps.
By keeping these tips in mind and getting tested regularly, you can help protect yourself from developing skin cancer.
Keep your skin healthy
Now that you know the various types of skin cancer and how to avoid them, you are ready to start living your new healthy life with proper care. Stay healthy, happy and cancer-free, and remember to check your skin often for possible changes.
What did you learn about skin cancer? Have you had experiences with any of the above skin cancers that you would like to share?
We'd love to hear your thoughts! Be sure to leave a comment below with your story and tips you have for protecting yourself against skin cancer.
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*The content of this publication has been written for informational purposes only. At no time can they serve to facilitate or provide diagnoses, treatments or suggestions from a professional. Consult your trusted specialist in case of doubt and ask for their acceptance before starting any method.
