Risk factors for skin cancer include being exposed to ultraviolet radiation in natural sunlight or in artificial light from tanning beds. Having a fair complexion that includes red or blonde hair, light colored eyes, and a light shade of skin color. Also a weakened immune system, prior radiation therapy, and certain inherited genes are risk factors. Use of sunscreens and avoidance of sun exposure are the two single biggest things that can be done to reduce the risk of skin cancer.
Skin cancers are generally broken down into the categories of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers. The non-melanoma skin cancers, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma, are the most common types. Melanoma is also common and the most dangerous type of skin cancer. Early detection and treatment is critical. Whole body skin examinations are offered and routinely performed in our clinic.
Often suspicious lesions are first biopsied to determine their nature before being treated. Various treatment modalities are employed to treat precancerous and cancerous lesions. These include cryotherapy, shave excisions, full excisions, Mohs surgery, topical chemo therapeutic and immune response modifying creams. The particular treatment modality is chosen based on the type of skin cancer, the location on body, and patient preference.
Melanoma warning signs to watch for:
The ABCDEs
A is for asymmetry. If you draw a line through center one half will not match the other. B is for border. The borders are often irregular or notched. C is for color. Having a more than one color in the same mole. D is for diameter. Melanomas are oft larger then the size of a pencil eraser. E is for evolution. Any change in a mole’s shape, color, size or if starts to bleed or itch.
Basal cell carcinoma warning signs to watch for:
He non-healing sore that bleeds. A shiny translucent pink or white bump or nodule. A pink growth that is slightly elevated with rolled borders and sometimes tiny blood vessels growing over the top.
Squamous cell carcinoma warning signs to watch for:
A persistent red patch or bump that sometimes crusts or bleeds. An open sore that bleeds and crusts.