Summary about Disease
Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells. It most often develops on skin exposed to the sun, but it can also occur on areas of your skin not ordinarily exposed to sunlight. There are several types, with the most common being basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Melanoma is the most dangerous due to its ability to spread rapidly. Early detection and treatment are key to improving outcomes.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the type of skin cancer. General symptoms include:
A new growth, sore that doesn't heal, or a change in an existing mole.
Basal Cell Carcinoma: Pearly or waxy bump, flat flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Firm, red nodule, scaly flat lesion with a crusty surface.
Melanoma: Large brownish spot with darker speckles, mole that changes in color, size or feel or that bleeds, small lesion with an irregular border and portions that appear red, pink, white, blue or black.
Causes
The primary cause of skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, either from sunlight or tanning beds. Other factors that can increase risk include:
Fair skin
History of sunburns
Excessive sun exposure
Moles
Family history of skin cancer
Weakened immune system
Exposure to certain substances (e.g., arsenic)
Medicine Used
Treatment options and medicines depend on the type, stage, and location of the skin cancer. Common treatments include:
Topical medications: Creams or lotions for early-stage cancers. Examples include imiquimod, fluorouracil.
Surgical excision: Cutting out the cancerous tissue.
Cryotherapy: Freezing the cancer cells.
Radiation therapy: Using high-energy beams to kill cancer cells.
Chemotherapy: Using drugs to kill cancer cells.
Targeted therapy: Drugs that target specific vulnerabilities in cancer cells.
Immunotherapy: Drugs that help your immune system fight the cancer. Examples include pembrolizumab, nivolumab.
Is Communicable
No, skin cancer is not communicable or contagious. It cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Seek shade: Especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Wear sunscreen: Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply generously and reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
Wear protective clothing: Cover exposed skin with long-sleeved shirts, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.
Avoid tanning beds: UV light from tanning beds can cause skin cancer and premature aging.
Check your skin regularly: Look for new growths or changes in existing moles. See a dermatologist if you notice anything unusual.
How long does an outbreak last?
Skin cancer isn't an "outbreak." It is a disease that develops over time. If left untreated, it continues to grow and potentially spread. Treatment duration varies greatly depending on the type and stage of cancer, and the treatment method used.
How is it diagnosed?
Skin cancer is typically diagnosed through:
Physical exam: A doctor will examine your skin for suspicious growths.
Biopsy: A small sample of skin is removed and examined under a microscope. This is the definitive way to diagnose skin cancer.
Imaging tests: In some cases, imaging tests such as CT scans or MRI may be used to determine if the cancer has spread.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptom development is highly variable. Some skin cancers, particularly melanoma, can grow and change rapidly over weeks or months. Others, like basal cell carcinoma, may develop slowly over years. There is no set timeline; changes should be addressed promptly.
Important Considerations
Early detection is crucial for successful treatment.
Regular skin self-exams are important.
People with a family history of skin cancer or those with fair skin are at higher risk.
Follow-up appointments with a dermatologist are important after treatment to monitor for recurrence.
Sun protection should be a lifelong habit.