Although this cancer is rare, if it’s left untreated, it can spread to other parts of the body. It’s particularly dangerous in people of color, and people of color are at greater risk of melanoma than other people. Some types of skin cancer spread to lymph nodes and livers, and even the brain. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer and can spread to surrounding skin, bones, and nerves.
The symptoms of skin cancer vary, but the main difference between the two is that skin cancer will likely bleed from minimal trauma, while rosacea is not likely to bleed. Treatment for skin cancer can include medications and sun protection. It’s also important to get regular checkups, as many types of skin cancer can return after treatment. Nevertheless, prevention is always better than cure. To lower your risk of skin cancer, use sunscreen regularly, limit your time outdoors during the hottest hours of the day, and avoid sunlamps and tanning booths.
Treatment for non-melanoma skin cancer usually begins with a visit to a GP, who can look over your skin and take digital photographs of any suspicious spots. Sometimes, your GP will refer you to a dermatologist or plastic surgeon for further testing. If the diagnosis is made, your specialist may decide to remove the affected area and perform a biopsy. This is a minor surgical procedure whereby a piece of the tumour is removed. Afterwards, the biopsy is studied under a microscope.
Advanced cases of skin cancer require the assistance of a multidisciplinary team of experts, including a dermatologist, surgical oncologist, and radiation oncologist. Your multidisciplinary team will determine which treatment path is best for your condition. A surgical oncologist may recommend surgery in the operating room, while a medical oncologist may recommend medications or radiation therapy. If you cannot undergo radiation therapy, your doctor may recommend a combination of medications or both.
Another type of skin cancer is Merkel cell cancer. This type begins in hormone-producing cells, and is most common in the head and neck area. Merkel cell cancer is also known as a neuroendocrine cancer of the skin. Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer, and accounts for just 1% of all cases. However, it’s worth noting that most types of skin cancer are treatable. Therefore, it’s crucial to be aware of the risks associated with this type of cancer.
If you have a family history of melanoma, it’s important to be careful and get regular screenings. Melanoma warning signs include irregular borders and asymmetrical spots. The color of the moles may also vary. If the mole grows larger than a pencil eraser, it’s probably a melanoma. For further information, call your doctor. Your physician will examine your skin for signs of skin cancer and tell you what to look for.
