Skin cancer

Skin cancer primarily falls into the following types:

Common types of skin cancers:

1. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

• The most common and least aggressive type.
• Arises in the basal cells, which produce new skin cells.
• It often appears as a pearly or waxy bump, a flat lesion, or a sore that doesn’t heal.
• It is typically caused by prolonged sun exposure.

2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

• The second most common type of skin cancer.
• Develops in the squamous cells of the outer skin layer.
• It may appear as a red, scaly patch, a firm nodule, or an open sore.
• It can grow and spread if untreated.

3. Melanoma

• The most severe and aggressive form of skin cancer.
• Originates in melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment (melanin).
• It often appears as a mole that changes in size, shape, or colour or as a new, unusual-looking growth.
• Early detection is critical, as melanoma can spread to other body parts.

Some less common types of skin cancer:

4. Merkel Cell Carcinoma

• It is a rare and aggressive skin cancer.
• Usually, it presents as a firm, painless nodule on sun-exposed areas like the face or neck.
• It has a high tendency to spread to other areas quickly.

5. Kaposi Sarcoma

• Rare and often associated with weakened immune systems (e.g., HIV/AIDS).
• Appears as red or purple patches on the skin or mucous membranes.
• Typically, it involves the skin, lymph nodes, or internal organs.

6. Cutaneous Lymphoma

• A type of lymphoma that begins in the skin.
• It may manifest as patches, plaques, or nodules on the skin.

7. Actinic Keratosis (Precancerous Lesion)

• Not cancer, but a precancerous condition that can develop into SCC.
• Appears as rough, scaly patches in sun-exposed areas.

Each type requires specific treatment and management, so timely diagnosis by a healthcare provider is essential.

What are the causes of skin cancer?

Skin cancer develops due to abnormal growth of skin cells, often triggered by damage to their DNA. Here are the primary causes:

1. Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation

- Overexposure to sunlight or artificial sources like tanning beds is the leading cause.

- UV rays damage skin cells, causing mutations that can lead to cancer.

2. People with lighter skin tones have less melanin, which offers limited protection against UV damage.

3. Severe or repeated sunburns, especially during childhood, increase the risk.

4. Conditions like HIV/AIDS or immunosuppressive medications (e.g., post-transplant) reduce the body’s ability to repair damaged cells.

5. Contact with carcinogens like arsenic can elevate skin cancer risk.

6. Family History of Skin Cancer

7. Moles or Precancerous Lesions

- Having numerous or atypical moles (dysplastic nevi) raises melanoma risk.

- Actinic keratosis, a precancerous condition, can progress to squamous cell carcinoma.

8. Past exposure to radiation therapy may heighten the likelihood of skin cancer.

Protecting your skin from UV exposure and regularly checking for changes can help reduce the risk of skin cancer.

What are the symptoms of skin cancer?

The most common warning sign of skin cancer is a noticeable change in your skin, such as a new growth or alterations in an existing mole. Symptoms of skin cancer may include:

• A new mole or a mole that changes in size, shape, or colour, or starts to bleed.
• A pearly or waxy bump often appears on the face, ears, or neck.
• Flat patches or bumps with pink, red, or brown colouring.
• Skin areas that resemble scars.
• Crusty sores with a central depression or frequent bleeding.
• A wound or sore that doesn’t heal or heal and reappears.
• Rough, scaly lesions that may itch, bleed, or become crusty.

If you notice any of these changes, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for evaluation. Early detection improves treatment outcomes.

When to see a doctor

If you notice any concerning changes in your skin, schedule an appointment with your doctor. While not all skin changes are linked to cancer, a medical evaluation can help identify the cause and address any potential issues promptly.