Are you concerned about the possibility of developing skin cancer? If the answer is yes, you should know what to look for and seek medical care as soon as possible. While most cases of skin cancer are treatable, the more aggressive forms can be fatal. Read on to find out more about the types of skin cancer. You may even be surprised to find that skin cancer is a much more common disease than you might think! Here are some tips for early detection:
Look for these characteristics: Moles are generally not melanoma. A dysplastic nevus can look like a mole or be new and growing. These moles may change in color, size, and border. The color may vary from pink to dark brown. In addition, the border can be irregular. If you find a patch of skin cancer that looks different from the rest, it may be a melanoma.
Although skin cancer is treatable, it can also become more invasive and spread to other parts of the body. Once it has spread to the lymph nodes or bones, it can be potentially fatal. The five-year survival rate for melanoma varies widely from patient to patient. The longer the cancer is allowed to grow, the worse the outcome is. So, early detection is key to surviving the disease and receiving the best possible care.
Another type of treatment for skin cancer is radiation therapy. While it is not widely used, this form of treatment is used when surgery is difficult and leaves a bad scar. Patients may also use it if the cancer spreads to the lymph nodes or bones. Biological therapies aren’t as common as surgery but still offer a number of benefits. They often cause rash and numbness or muscle aches, and can lead to a fever or weakness.
A common form of skin cancer is basal cell carcinoma, which accounts for around 35% of non-melanoma cases. Basal cells are located in the deepest layer of the epidermis, around hair follicles. Basal cell carcinoma is sometimes referred to as a “rodent ulcer” because of its similar appearance. The most common type of basal cell cancer begins as a firm, enlarging lump with pearly edges. Later, the area will crust or ulcerate and can be very itchy.
Exposure to ultraviolet radiation is a known risk factor for skin cancer. Exposure to UV rays from sunlight can damage DNA in skin cells, which in turn can cause cancer. Exposure to tanning beds and tanning lamps increases your risk. Additionally, scars caused by burns or skin ulcers increase your risk for non-melanoma skin cancer. Moreover, solar keratosis (actinic keratosis) is caused by years of exposure to the sun.
Another prevention method is to wear sunscreen lotion with broad spectrum coverage. This sunscreen lotion must block both UVB and UVA rays. Wear clothing that protects your skin and avoid spending time in the sun during the midday. Lastly, your doctor might advise you to perform regular self-examinations of your skin. To avoid the risk of developing skin cancer, learn the appearance of birthmarks and moles. If you are concerned that your skin might have cancer, consult a dermatologist as early detection is important for treatment.
