Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells. This cancer occurs when mutations develop in the DNA of skin cells. The mutations cause the cells to grow out of control and form a mass of cancer cells. Most of the DNA damage in skin cells is caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation found in sunlight and in the lights used in tanning beds. Skin cancer most often develops on skin exposed to the sun. However, this common type of cancer can also occur on areas of skin that are not normally exposed to sunlight.

Skin cancer develops mainly on areas of skin exposed to the sun, such as the scalp, face, lips, ears, neck, chest, arms and hands. However, it can also form on areas that rarely see daylight, such as the palms of your hands, beneath your fingernails or toenails, and your genital area. Skin cancer affects people of all skin tones, including those with darker skin.

The risk of skin cancer can be reduced by limiting or avoiding exposure to UV radiation.

Types of Skin Cancer

There are three main types of skin cancer: squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma and melanoma. Squamous cells lie just below the outer surface and function as the skin's inner lining. Basal cells, which produce new skin cells, lie beneath the squamous cells. Melanocytes, which produce melanin, the pigment that gives skin its normal color, are located in the lower part of your epidermis. Melanocytes produce more melanin when you are in the sun to help protect the deeper layers of your skin. Where your skin cancer begins determines its type and your treatment options.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Checking your skin for suspicious changes can help detect skin cancer at its earliest stages. Early diagnosis of skin cancer gives you the greatest chance of successful skin cancer treatment.

If you notice any changes in your skin that worry you, make an appointment at a healthcare facility. Not all skin changes are caused by skin cancer. Your doctor will investigate your skin changes to determine a cause.

What Are the Risk Factors for Skin Cancer?

Factors that may increase your risk of skin cancer include:

• Fair skin
• A history of sunburns
• Excessive sun exposure
• Sunny or high-altitude climates
• Moles on the skin
• Precancerous skin lesions
• A family history of skin cancer
• A personal history of skin cancer
• A weakened immune system
• Exposure to radiation
• Exposure to certain substances

Diagnosis

To diagnose skin cancer, a skin examination and, in suspicious cases, a skin biopsy may be needed. Suspicious-looking skin may be removed for laboratory testing. A biopsy can determine whether you have skin cancer and, if so, what type of skin cancer you have.

Treatment

Treatment options for skin cancer and precancerous skin lesions vary depending on the size, type, depth and location of the lesions. Small skin cancers limited to the surface of the skin may not need treatment beyond a skin biopsy that removes the entire growth. If additional treatment is needed, options such as freezing, excisional surgery, Mohs surgery, curettage and electrodesiccation or cryotherapy, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, photodynamic therapy and biological therapy may be evaluated and applied by the physician.

Prevention

Most skin cancers are preventable. You can follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Avoid the sun in the middle of the day
• Use sunscreen year-round
• Wear protective clothing
• Avoid tanning beds
• Be careful when using medications that increase sensitivity to the sun

Check your skin regularly and be sure to tell your doctor about any changes you notice.