Information on Skin Cancer

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Skin Cancer: Causes, Types, Diagnosis, Prevention, and Treatment

What is Skin Cancer?Skin cancer arises from an abnormal proliferation of skin cells that have lost their ability to regulate growth. Often, this is attributed to accumulated alterations induced by ultraviolet (UV) radiation, either from excessive sun exposure or the use of tanning beds. It stands as the most prevalent form of cancer, accounting for one-third of global cancer diagnoses.

Types of Skin CancerThere are three primary types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Additionally, actinic keratosis represents a precancerous skin growth that holds the potential to progress into cancer.

Diagnosis of Skin CancerRegular consultations with a specialized dermatologist are crucial, as self-examinations may not reliably detect this form of cancer. However, being acquainted with the spots or marks on one's skin aids in identifying any changes, warranting professional assessment. The ABCDE rule offers a guideline to differentiate a normal mole from a potentially problematic one:

• Asymmetry: One half of the mole differs from the other.
• Border Irregularity: The mole displays uneven, irregular, or blurred edges.
• Color: Particular concern arises with reddish, whitish, or bluish lesions on a dark background.
• Diameter: Moles exceeding 6 mm in diameter or displaying growth warrant attention.
• Evolving Size, Shape, or Color: Changes in any of these aspects necessitate medical evaluation.

A visual examination by a dermatologist serves as an initial step, though it does not constitute a definitive diagnosis. If a mole exhibits characteristics suggesting malignancy, a biopsy is conducted to confirm or refute the presence of cancer.

Prevention of Skin CancerThe primary risk factor for skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet radiation, whether from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. Prevention holds particular significance for individuals with lighter skin tones, but it is essential for all skin types. Recommended measures include:

• Wearing protective clothing (long pants, long-sleeved shirts), hats, and sunglasses during sun exposure.
• Using sunscreen with adequate sun protection factor (SPF).
• Avoiding prolonged sun exposure, especially between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. when solar radiation is most intense.

Topical treatments with chemotherapeutic, immunomodulatory, and photodynamic agents can effectively address subclinical lesions and reduce the risk of subsequent cancer development.

Treatment of Skin CancerTreatment strategies vary based on the extent and stage of the disease. Surgical removal is the most commonly employed approach and proves highly effective, especially for superficial carcinomas. Cryotherapy, involving the freezing of tumorous cells, may be suitable for very small tumors with low recurrence risk.

When alternative techniques are not feasible, topical treatments using chemotherapeutic, immunomodulatory, and photodynamic agents are applied, particularly for superficial tumors. Electrosurgery and radiotherapy offer effectiveness, especially for large-size carcinomas. In aggressive cases, such as melanoma, systemic chemotherapy becomes necessary. Immunotherapy treatments have shown promising advancements for this type of skin cancer.

Regular dermatological monitoring remains crucial for early detection of potential recurrences.