Skin Cancer Awareness | Symptoms | Diagnosis

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, and it is estimated that more than 3 million people are diagnosed with skin cancer every year. 

The good news is that skin cancer is also one of the most preventable and treatable types of cancer if caught early. In this blog post, we will discuss what skin cancer is, the different types of skin cancer, the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.

What is Skin Cancer? 

Skin cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when the skin cells begin to grow abnormally and uncontrollably. Skin cancer can occur anywhere on the body but is most commonly found in

areas that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, arms, and legs. However, skin cancer can also develop in areas that are not exposed to the sun.

There are three main types of skin cancer:

Basal cell carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma

Melanoma

Basal Cell Carcinoma: 

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. This type of cancer usually appears as a small, shiny, or pearly bump on the skin. It can also appear as a flat, pink, or red patch on the skin. Basal cell carcinoma is usually slow-growing and rarely spreads to other parts of the body. However, if left untreated, it can grow larger and deeper into the skin, causing disfigurement.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma: 

Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer. This type of cancer usually appears as a red, scaly, or crusted bump or patch on the skin. It can also appear as a wart-like growth or a sore that does not heal. Squamous cell carcinoma can grow deeper into the skin and can sometimes spread to other parts of the body.

Melanoma: 

Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer. It can develop from an existing mole or as a new, dark spot on the skin. Melanoma can spread quickly to other parts of the body and can be fatal if not caught early. It is important to monitor any moles or dark spots on the skin and report any changes to a dermatologist.

Symptoms of Skin Cancer: 

The symptoms of skin cancer can vary depending on the type of skin cancer. The most common symptoms of skin cancer include:

A new, unusual growth or sore that does not heal

A change in the size, shape, or color of a mole or other skin lesion

A sore that bleeds or becomes crusty

Redness or swelling beyond the border of a skin lesion

Itching, tenderness, or pain in a skin lesion

Diagnosis of Skin Cancer: 

If you notice any changes in your skin or have any symptoms of skin cancer, it is important to see a dermatologist. A dermatologist can perform a physical exam of the skin and may take a biopsy, which involves removing a small piece of tissue for testing in a laboratory. The biopsy can determine if the skin lesion is cancerous and, if so, what type of skin cancer it is. Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs may be used to determine the extent of cancer if it has spread beyond the skin.