|
|
 |
 |
There are three different types of skin cancer:
* squamous cell carcinoma
* basal cell carcinoma
* melanoma
All three types of cancer begin in the cells of the epidermis, the
skin's upper layer.
Squamous cell carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer
in fair-skinned people. It is twice as common in men as in women. Like
other skin cancers, squamous cell carcinoma is caused by too much
exposure to UV rays from the sun or indoor tanning booths. It may
appear as a bump or scaly red patch FREQUENTLY on the face, neck,
arms, scalp, ear, lips, or mouth. Squamous cellcarcinoma is a
slow-growing cancer but it can spread to other parts of the body.
Because this cancer can spread, it is important to treat it as early
as possible through surgery or radiation therapy.
Basal cell carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer in
fair-skinned people. It usually shows up on the face, ears, scalp,
neck, or upper body. Basal cell carcinoma may have slightly raised
edges with a crusty, indented center appearing as:
* a red patch
* a pink, red, or white bump that is shiny or pearly
* a crusty, open sore that will not heal
* a scar-like area
This type of skin cancer grows very slowly and usually does not
spread to other parts of the body. It is usually treated by removing
the tumor (with surgery) or by freezing the tumor (cryotherapy).
Melanoma
Melanoma is the least common type of skin cancer, but is the most serious.
It begins in the melanocytes. These are the skin cells that make the
pigment called melanin, which gives skin its color. Melanoma can
quickly spread to other parts of the body so it is important to detect
and treat melanoma in its early stages. Melanoma is the leading cause
of all skin cancer-related deaths.
|
|
 |
|
|
