Skin Cancer

1. [noun] skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells and often (not always) is related to sun exposure. There are three major types of skin cancer: 1. Basal cell carcinoma : begins in the basal cells. It is a type of cell within the skin that produces new skin cells as old ones die off. It often presents a slightly transparent bump in areas that are exposed to sun (head and neck). Avoiding long periods of exposure to UV light from the sun and using sunscreen may help protect you from basal cell carcinoma. 2. Squamous cell carcinoma: develops in the squamous cells that make up the middle and outer layers of the skin and is “usually” non-life threatening. It can be aggressive if left untreated as it may grow larger and spread to other areas. This is often related to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Common locations include: “sun-exposed skin” scalp, hands, and ears. But can be found anywhere in the body that squamous cells are located, such as inside your mouth, plantar aspect of foot, or genitals. Signs and symptoms of squamous cell carcinoma of the skin include: A firm, red nodule A flat sore with a scaly crust A new sore or raised area on an old scar or ulcer A rough, scaly patch on your lip that may evolve to an open sore A red sore or rough patch inside your mouth A red, raised patch or wartlike sore on or in the anus or on your genitals 3. Melanoma , the most serious type of skin cancer, develops in the cells (melanocytes) that produce melanin — the pigment that gives your skin its color. But melanoma can also form in your eyes and, rarely, in internal organs, such as your intestines. The exact cause of all melanomas isn't clear, but exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight or tanning lamps and beds increases your risk of developing melanoma Common sites of melanoma include: back, legs, arms and face. Less common areas include: plantar area of feet, palms, finger and toenail beds. Early signs often present as a change in a mole, new pigmented or unusual growth. But it doesn’t always begin as a mole. Normal moles are: uniform color ( tan, brown or black) distinct border oval or round usually smaller than 1/4 inch (the size of a pencil eraser) Most people have 10-50 moles that have developed by 50 years of age. Some may change in appearance or even disappear with age. Assess for unusual moles that may indicate melanoma. Look at the ABCDE’s: A is for asymmetrical shape. Look for moles with irregular shapes, such as two very different-looking halves. B is for irregular border. Look for moles with irregular, notched or scalloped borders — characteristics of melanomas. C is for changes in color. Look for growths that have many colors or an uneven distribution of color. D is for diameter. Look for new growth in a mole larger than 1/4 inch (about 6 millimeters). E is for evolving. Look for changes over time, such as a mole that grows in size or that changes color or shape. Moles may also evolve to develop new signs and symptoms, such as new itchiness or bleeding. Hidden melanomas Hidden Melanomas: may be located in areas that have little to no exposure to the sun and most people would not think to check areas such as: Between toes, palms, soles, scalp or genitals

Source: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/melanoma/symptoms-causes/syc-20374884