What do the different stages of skin cancer mean? Doctors use the TNM system to grade the stages of skin cancer. This system measures the thickness of the tumor, lymph node spread and metastasis to determine the overall stage of the cancer. Melanoma in situ, or squamous cell cancer, is an early stage of the disease. It begins as melanoma in situ (SIN), and progresses through stages 1 through 4. A squamous cell carcinoma is classified as a stage three tumor.
Treatment for skin cancer depends on whether the cancer has spread to other tissues or organs. Some treatments involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or photodynamic therapy, which uses a drug to kill cancer cells. Biologic therapy is another option. It boosts the immune system to fight the disease. Some people are at high risk for getting skin cancer, so they should be examined for signs of it. While it is most common among adults, children can also develop it.
Sunlamps, tanning beds, and excessive exposure to sunlight are all dangerous sources of UV radiation. They expose you to more than double the risk of developing skin cancer compared to those with darker skin. People with fair skin are also more likely to develop cancer, so protecting yourself from sun exposure is essential. Sunglasses, hats, and wide-brimmed hats can provide shade while still protecting your skin from the sun.
People with abnormal moles are more likely to develop skin cancer. These moles are larger and irregular. Their size and shape make them a high risk for becoming cancerous. Therefore, it is important to monitor any changes in these moles and to seek medical advice. If you notice any new moles, actinic keratoses are precancerous skin growths that are brown or pink. They are most common in fair-skinned people.
Even if moles are not signs of skin cancer, they are high risk for developing melanoma. Family history of melanoma can increase the risk of developing it. Some factors contribute to this risk, including light skin color and genetic changes, but do not limit your options. Regardless of your family history, a monthly visit to a dermatologist and use of sunscreens are the best ways to protect yourself from skin cancer.
Squamous cell carcinomas occur in areas that are typically exposed to sunlight, including the face. While melanomas occur anywhere on the body, they usually appear on the face of men and on the lower legs of women. This type of skin cancer is a life-threatening condition and must be treated immediately. So, how do you tell if you have a mole on your skin? Start with a skin cancer examination!
Although melanoma is rare in darker skin, it can still affect people of all skin types. Dr. Dalzell reminds patients that Bob Marley, who died of melanoma, had skin cancer. The cancer can form anywhere on the body, including between toes, under the nails, and on the sole of the feet. There are also other types of skin cancer that are non-melanoma. They look very different than melanoma.
