Skin Cancer
Skin cancer, which is the most common form of cancer in the United States, is the result of the abnormal growth of skin cells. Cancer can affect skin anywhere on the body, but most frequently appears on skin that is exposed to the sun. There are more than a million new cases of skin cancer in the United States each year.
Risk Factors Of Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is most closely associated with chronic inflammation of the skin. This include
- Sunburn or excessive sun damage, especially early in life. UVA & UVB have both been implicated in causing DNA damage resulting in cancer.
- Sun exposure between 10AM and 4PM is thought to be most harmful.
- Natural (sun) & artificial UV exposure (tanning salons) are associated with skin cancer.
- Chronic non-healing wounds, especially burns. These are called Marjolin’s ulcers based on their appearance and can develop into squamous cell carcinoma.
- Genetic predisposition, including congenital melanocytic nevi syndrome (CMNS). CMNS is characterized by the presence of “nevi” or moles of varying size that either appear at or within 6 months of birth. Nevi larger than 20 mm (3/4 in) in size are at higher risk for becoming cancerous.
Signs And Symptoms Of Skin Cancer
There are a variety of different skin cancer symptoms. These include scabs or changes in the skin that do not heal, ulcers in the skin, discoloration, and changes in existing moles.
Basal cell carcinoma usually looks like a raised, smooth, pearly bump on the sun-exposed skin of the head, neck, or shoulders. Sometimes small blood vessels can be seen within the tumor. Crusting and bleeding in the center of the tumor frequently develops. It is often mistaken for a sore that does not heal.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is commonly a red, scaling, thickened patch on sun-exposed skin. Ulceration and bleeding may occur. When SCC is not treated, it may develop into a large mass.
Melanomas are brown to black looking lesions. Signs that might indicate a malignant melanoma include a change in size, shape, color, or elevation of a mole. The appearance of a new mole during adulthood, or new pain, itching, ulceration or bleeding of an existing mole should be checked.
How Can You Reduce The Risks Of Skin Cancer?
Although it is impossible to completely eliminate the possibility of skin cancer, the risk of developing such cancer can be reduced significantly with the following steps:
- Reducing exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, especially in early years
- Avoiding sunburns
- Avoiding sun exposure when the sun is highest in the sky
- Wearing protective clothing (long sleeves and hats) when outdoors
- Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB radiation
- Reapplying sunblock every 2 hours and after swimming
How Often Should I Get Screened For Skin Cancer?
If you are in a high-risk category for getting skin cancer, such as having a light complexion or having had multiple bad sunburns in childhood, you should schedule skin cancer screenings on a yearly basis. If you are between the ages of 20 and 40 and have a low risk for skin cancer, you may schedule your screenings every two to three years. That said, regardless of how often you see your dermatologist, you should perform monthly self-examinations to observe your skin for signs of new growths and abnormalities in existing growths or moles.
At What Age Are People Most Prone To Skin Cancer?
Your skin is always susceptible to skin cancer. This is because the primary factor that contributes to this disease is ultraviolet light, and your skin may be exposed to UV rays every time you go outdoors. The vast majority of skin cancers are diagnosed in middle-aged and older adults. The reason being is that it can take many years for the DNA damage that has occurred to rise to the surface in the form of abnormal skin cells. If you are seeing skin cancer now, it is likely a result of sun exposure that you received many years ago.
Is Skin Cancer Treatment Painful?
Your skin cancer treatment should not be painful. Our doctors prioritize comfort and, to ensure yours, will administer appropriate anesthesia when necessary. For example, Mohs skin cancer surgery is performed after the doctor injects the surgical site with a powerful local anesthetic. You are awake for the procedure but do not feel any discomfort. After this procedure, you may need to take an over-the-counter pain reliever to minimize localized tenderness and soreness. Other skin cancer treatments, such as cryotherapy to freeze cancer cells, may be slightly uncomfortable. However, this temporary discomfort is tolerable.
Is There Any Necessary Recovery Time After Treatment?
Some skin cancer treatments, such as excision or Mohs surgery, may require some aftercare to help heal the surgical wound. However, recovery generally does not involve taking time off work unless your job requires you to perform strenuous physical activity. After surgical skin cancer treatment, the site is covered with a bandage for several days. You may be advised to remove the dressing and clean the surgical site at least once a day. Your doctor may prescribe an ointment or other medication to apply to the area. If your skin cancer treatment requires aftercare or any time off, your doctor will advise you of the appropriate instructions during your consultation.
The ABC’s of Skin Cancer
For early detection of Melanoma, follow the ABCDEs of Skin Cancer
A
Asymmetry
Uneven shape
or pattern
B
Borders
Outer edges
uneven
C
Color
Dark black or multiple colors
D
Diameter
Greater than
6mm
E
Evolving
Changing
size/shape/color
Request a Consultation
If you are looking for a dermatology practice that specializes in skin cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment, please use the form on this page to schedule a consultation at Hollywood Dermatology by calling 954.961.1200 or visit our contact page for information about our South Florida locations.
