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.
Understanding the Different Types of Skin Cells
Many people think of the skin as no more than the body's covering, but there is much more to know about our largest organ. For example, just the outer layer alone consists of three different types of cells. That is important to know since each can develop a unique type of skin cancer.
As a highly trained surgeon, Dr. Trevan Fischer uses innovative techniques at his private practice in Santa Monica, California, to diagnose and treat a variety of types of cancer, including skin cancer. In addition to this work at his office, he is involved with clinical trials at the Saint John's Cancer Institute, which aids him in staying current with the latest research and recommendations in the field of oncology.
Our skin
The exterior layer of our skin, known as the epidermis, plays several essential roles in maintaining our health. It protects us from environmental dangers, like infections and injuries, as well as regulates body temperature and prevents water loss.
Types of skin cells
The skin is made up of three kinds of cells — squamous cells, basal cells, and melanocytes — with each performing a necessary job.
Squamous cells
Squamous cells are flat and found in the upper area of the epidermis. They are continuously shed. They can replicate out of control and become squamous cell skin cancer.
Typically, squamous cell carcinoma develops due to too much exposure to damaging UV rays from the sun or tanning beds. It is usually not fatal, but it can grow aggressively, so prompt treatment is essential. This cancer can look like a red, scaly patch, rough skin that has thickened, or an open sore.
Basal cells
Basal cells are located near the bottom of the epidermis. Their task is to create new skin cells, which push older cells upward where they are sloughed off.
Like with squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma is also frequently caused by damage from UV radiation. It often appears like a translucent or shiny skin-colored bump, a lesion that is blue, brown or black, or a scaly area with an edge that is raised.
Melanocytes
Melanocytes create the pigment melanin and are located at the bottom of the epidermis. They are what give skin its color.
Melanoma occurs in the melanocytes and is the most serious type of skin cancer. It occurs less often than squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma but spreads quickly to other organs, so it needs to be caught and treated early for the best outcome.
Melanomas frequently appear as a change to an existing mole or in a new growth on the skin that is pigmented or unusual looking. Like with the other types of skin cancer, damage from UV exposure is often the cause.
The earlier skin cancer is caught, the better the outcome. If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer already or have just noticed an abnormal spot, bump, or blemish, click to book an appointment with Dr. Fischer or call our office today.
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