Skin Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
Most people get skin cancer when skin cells grow abnormally and form a tumor. The most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
Causes of Skin Cancer
UV radiation, which can damage skin cells' DNA and cause them to mutate, is the main cause of skin cancer. UV radiation can be obtained from the sun or artificial sources, such as tanning beds. Depending on the type of skin, genetics, and personal history of sunburns or skin injuries, some people are more prone to developing skin cancer than others.
Other factors that may increase the risk of skin cancer include:
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Having a weakened immune system due to certain diseases or medications
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Having a history of radiation therapy or exposure to certain chemicals
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Having a large number of moles or other skin growths
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Having a family history of skin cancer
Symptoms of Skin Cancer
It is more common on areas that are exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, arms, and legs. Skin cancer symptoms vary based on the type and stage of the disease, but some common symptoms are:
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A new or changing mole, freckle, or spot on the skin
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A sore that does not heal or bleeds easily
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A lump or bump that is firm, smooth, or scaly
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A patch of skin that is red, swollen, or itchy
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A change in the color, shape, size, or texture of an existing mole or spot
It is important to check your skin regularly and report any changes to your doctor. Not all skin changes are cancerous, but it is better to be safe than sorry.
Diagnosis of Skin Cancer
Your doctor will examine your skin and ask about your medical history and risk factors in order to diagnose skin cancer. If your doctor suspects you have skin cancer, they may perform the following tests:
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A skin biopsy, which involves taking a small sample of skin and sending it to a laboratory for analysis
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A dermatoscopy, which involves using a special magnifying device to look at the skin more closely
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A skin imaging, which involves using a camera or a scanner to take pictures of the skin
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A lymph node biopsy, which involves taking a small sample of lymph nodes and sending it to a laboratory for analysis
The results of these tests will help your doctor determine the type, stage, and extent of your skin cancer, and plan the best treatment for you.
Treatment of Skin Cancer
The treatment of skin cancer depends on the type, stage, and location of the cancer, as well as your overall health and preferences. Some of the common treatment options include:
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Surgery, which involves removing the cancerous tissue and some surrounding normal tissue
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Cryotherapy, which involves freezing and destroying the cancerous tissue with liquid nitrogen
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Electrodesiccation and curettage, which involves scraping and burning the cancerous tissue with an electric needle
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Laser therapy, which involves using a high-intensity light beam to vaporize the cancerous tissue
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Radiation therapy, which involves using high-energy rays to kill the cancer cells
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Chemotherapy, which involves using drugs to kill the cancer cells or stop them from growing
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Immunotherapy, which involves using drugs to stimulate the immune system to fight the cancer cells
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Targeted therapy, which involves using drugs to block the specific genes or proteins that help the cancer cells grow and spread
Some of these treatments may be used alone or in combination, depending on the situation. Your doctor will discuss the benefits and risks of each treatment option with you and help you make an informed decision.
Prevention of Skin Cancer
It is important to protect your skin from the sun and avoid artificial sources of UV radiation. You can reduce your risk of skin cancer by following these steps:
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Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 every day, even on cloudy days
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Wearing protective clothing, such as long sleeves, pants, hats, and sunglasses, when going outdoors
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Seeking shade or avoiding the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the UV rays are the strongest
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Avoiding tanning beds and sun lamps, which emit harmful UV rays
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Checking your skin regularly and reporting any changes to your doctor
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Having regular skin exams by a dermatologist, especially if you have a high risk of skin cancer
Remember that skin cancer can be treated if detected early, so do not ignore any signs or symptoms that may indicate a problem when enjoying the sun.
