Skin Cancer

Some forms of cancer exist and they can take place at any location in the body - skin is one of them. It is one of the most common types of cancer in the world, caused by ultraviolet (UV radiation), high sun exposure, etc.

Types of skin cancer are different from each other and depend on the situation of the patient. It is the same for the symptoms.

In this article, we will take a look at skin cancer and skin cancer treatment, risk factors, types of skin cancer, and more.

Causes of Skin Cancer

The causes of skin cancer are various, but the main reason is mostly being exposed to high ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Sun overexposure may also be a cause since being exposed to the constant sun is harmful to the skin.

Also, artificial light sources such as tanning beds are considered not suitable for the skin and can cause skin cancer since the UV is harmful.

Besides, having fair skin means that you’re sensitive to the sun or harmful UV light. You should be more careful since they cause skin damage easily.

Types of Skin Cancer

As mentioned previously, the types of skin cancer are different from each other but here are the most known three:

• Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most known type of skin cancer and occurs in the epidermis - in the lowest layer of it. Lesions can be seen along with waxy bumps.
• Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): Its the second most known type of skin cancer in the upper layer of the epidermis. The places that are affected by the SCC may be sensitive to touch and can be located in the neck, lips, hands, etc. Red nodules can be seen as well.
• Melanoma: Melanoma is an aggressive form of skin cancer. Melanoma is responsible for producing the cells that give color to our skin, therefore dark lesions can be seen around the fingertips, palms, nose, etc.

Symptoms and Early Detection of Skin Cancer

Symptoms and early detection of skin cancer mean that you need to observe your skin regularly. Most of them are visible such as changes in the moles - they may change their shape and can be asymmetric. The colors can be changed along with the size growth. Some can become sensitive to touch.

You can consult a dermatologist when you realize any abnormal changes or skin changes.

Diagnosis and Staging of Skin Cancer

Diagnosis generally starts with a physical examination by the dermatologist. They can look at the affected areas such as moles, growths, etc. Some medical instruments can be used for further examination. A biopsy can be performed as well. After the biopsy and pathologic examination, the stage of skin cancer can be decided by the international-accepted system.

It is essential to stage the cancer so that the treatment can be decided and shaped.

Treatment Options for Skin Cancer

The treatment options for skin cancer depend on some factors such as the type, stage, age, gender, location and growth and size of cancer, etc. But generally, these options are used for treatment:

• Surgery: Surgery can be considered the most chosen treatment option. The affected area can be removed by using sensitive medical instruments, and the surgery style is shaped according to the patient’s needs.
• Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy is a method used to kill cancerous cells with the help of high-energy beams.

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