Skin cancer

Skin cancer facts

• There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma (the nonmelanoma skin cancers), and melanoma.
• Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in humans.
• Ultraviolet light, which is in sunlight, is the main cause of skin cancer.
• The most common warning sign of skin cancer is a change in the appearance of the skin, such as a new growth or a sore that will not heal. Unexplained changes in the appearance of the skin lasting longer than two weeks should be evaluated by a doctor.
• Nonmelanoma skin cancer is usually curable unless found in a neglected and far-advanced state.
• Treatment of nonmelanoma skin cancer depends on the type and location of the skin cancer, the risk of scarring, as well as the age and health of the patient. Methods used include curettage and desiccation, surgical excision, cryosurgery, radiation, and Mohs micrographic surgery.
• Avoiding sun exposure in susceptible individuals is the best way to lower the risk for all types of skin cancer. Regular surveillance of susceptible individuals, both by self-examination and regular physical examination, is also a good idea for people at higher risk. People who have already had any form of skin cancer should have regular medical checkups.

Introduction

Skin cancer is the most common form of human cancer. It is estimated that over 2 million new cases occur annually. The annual rates of all forms of skin cancer are increasing each year, representing a growing public concern. It has also been estimated that nearly half of all Americans who live to age 65 will develop skin cancer at least once.
The most common warning sign of skin cancer is a change in the appearance of the skin, such as a new growth or a sore that will not heal.
The term "skin cancer" refers to three different conditions. From the least to the most dangerous, they are:

• basal cell carcinoma (or basal cell carcinoma epithelioma)
• squamous cell carcinoma (the first stage of which is called actinic keratosis)
• melanoma

The two most common forms of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Together, these two are also referred to as nonmelanoma skin cancer. Melanoma is generally the most serious form of skin cancer because it tends to spread (metastasize) throughout the body quickly. Skin cancer is also known as skin neoplasia.
This article will discuss the two kinds of nonmelanoma skin cancer.

Skin Cancer