4 Steps to Take If Skin Cancer Runs in Your Family
Having a relative diagnosed with skin cancer like melanoma can naturally be concerning. Read on to learn more about how that affects your risk and the steps you can take to protect yourself.
The Different Types of Skin Cancer
Most people know the risk of skin cancer increases with exposure to damaging ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and tanning beds. What some may not realize, however, is all skin cancers are not the same. In fact, there are three main kinds as well as several other less frequently occurring types.
In his private practice located in Santa Monica, California, Dr. Trevan Fischer performs a variety of skin and other cancer surgeries using the latest techniques. In addition, he stays up-to-date on the most recent innovations through his work on clinical trials at the Saint John's Cancer Institute.
Skin cancer
Skin cancer results from skin cells that grow abnormally, while the type is determined by where the cancer starts. The three most common kinds are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
Basal cell carcinoma
The most common kind of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma strikes eight out of ten skin cancer patients. It is found in basal cells, the type of cells which create new skin cells. While it most often affects people with fair skin, it can occur in anyone regardless of skin color.
Basal cell carcinoma usually appears in several presentations. It could be a bump that is pink, pearly white, or skin-colored. Other variations include lesions that are black, brown or blue, a scaly red patch or a lesion that is white, waxy, and scar-like.
Squamous cell carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma is found in the squamous cells located in the skin's middle and outer layers. This type of skin cancer can occur anywhere but is most often located in areas exposed to the sun.
It can appear as a firm red nodule or sore that is flat with a scaly crust. It can also manifest itself as either a new sore or a raised area on a scar.
Melanoma
Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer and is found in the cells that create the pigment which provides the skin its color. It can often be found by noticing a change in an existing mole or a new growth on the skin.
To help recognize a potentially abnormal mole, remember the acronym "ABCDE." Asymmetrical shape (A), irregular border (B), color change (C), diameter (D), and evolving (E) or changing over time all could be signals of skin cancer.
Other types
There are also several kinds of rare skin cancer. These include Merkel cell carcinoma, Kaposi sarcoma, and lymphoma of the skin.
Skin cancers are more easily treated when detected early, so if you notice something different or abnormal on your skin, call our office today or click to book an appointment with Dr. Fischer.
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