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Skin cancer
Skin cancer is the uncontrolled overgrowth of abnormal skin cells. This abnormal growth of cells is caused by unrepaired DNA damage, which triggers a mutation that causes skin cells to multiply quickly, forming cancer cells. Anyone can get this type of cancer, and it can occur anywhere on the body, but it’s more likely to develop when your skin is regularly exposed to sunlight.
A skin self-exam will help you become familiar with the moles and spots on your body, making it easier for you to spot any irregularities that could indicate the early signs of cancer. Our dermatologists recommend examining your skin about once a month. To perform a skin self-exam, you’ll need to carefully examine your entire body from head to toe. Use a full-length mirror to examine your arms and the front and back of your body. You should use a hand-held mirror to check your scalp, the back of your neck, and buttocks. Don’t forget to look at your hands, between your toes, and the soles of your feet.
Skin Cancer Types
Here’s a closer look at the three most common skin cancer types:
This is the most common type of all skin cancers and occurs in 1 of 5 Americans. Over 1,000,000 Americans will be diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma this year and we treat over 1500 per year.
It typically grows slowly and usually develops on areas of the body frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, and head. Basal cell carcinoma usually appears as a shiny bump or nodule, pink growth, or flat lesion that’s brown or flesh-toned.
Early diagnosis and treatment for are important. Basal cell carcinoma can grow deep, left untreated can penetrate the nerves and bones, causing damage and disfigurement.
Squamous cell carcinoma also grows slowly, but it can grow deep into the skin. It frequently develops on sun-exposed skin, including the face, ears, lips, and hands, and can appear as a scaly patch, a red bump that’s firm to the touch, or an open sore.
Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent from growing deep and spreading to other areas of the body.
Melanoma spreads quickly and is the most serious form of skin cancer. It can develop within a mole that you already have on your skin, or it can appear suddenly as a dark spot or lesion that looks different from the rest of the marks on your skin. Melanoma can also appear as a black, blue, white, or red/pink lesion or mole with a jagged or irregular border.
Melanoma can be found anywhere on the body (scalp, groin, buttocks, bottoms of the feet, and between the toes).
Skin Cancer Symptoms
What skin cancer symptoms should you be looking for when performing a self-check of your skin at home? Any spot or mark on your skin that’s new, is different from others, or one that changes in shape, color, size, or feel. You should also pay attention to any itching, bleeding, crusting, or oozing of any spots or marks. If you notice any unusual or suspicious marks on your skin, make an appointment to see a Forefront dermatologist.
Skin Cancer Diagnosis
To determine a skin cancer diagnosis, your dermatologist will examine your skin, carefully looking at the lesion or spot that might be cancerous. If it looks like it could be cancerous, your doctor will remove a sample of it for further testing. This skin biopsy can determine which of the skin cancer types you have.
Risk Factors That Make Early Detection Critical
- Fair Skin: People with lighter skin are more vulnerable to UV damage and skin cancer.
- Sun Exposure: A history of excessive sun exposure, including sunburns, or use of tanning beds increases the risk of skin cancer.
- Family History: A family history of skin cancer can predispose individuals to higher risks.
- Previous Skin Cancer: Having had one skin cancer increases the likelihood of developing more skin cancers in the future.
Skin Cancer Treatment Options
Your skin cancer treatment options depend on the size, type, and location of the lesion. Small skin cancers found on the surface of your skin may require only minor surgery, but deeper cancers typically need more extensive treatment.
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Asymmetry Melanomas are frequently asymmetrical
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Border Melanomas frequently have uneven or irregular borders (ragged or notched edges)
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Color Melanomas are often larger than 6 mm (1/4 inch) in diameter
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Diameter Melanomas typically have shown some evidence of change in the months prior to diagnosis
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Whether you’re dealing with acne, eczema, health concerns or just want to refresh your glow—we’ve got you covered. Our expert dermatology team is here to help.