Skin cancer is a malignant condition that begins with the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells typically in the top layer of the skin. It is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Millions of Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer every year so it is important to have a skin exam regularly, as skin cancer is 90% curable if caught early.
There are several types of skin cancer but the main ones are Basal Cell, Squamous Cell and melanoma.
Basal Cell – is the most common but least aggressive form of skin cancer. It frequently appears as a small shiny bump that eventually turns into a sore that won’t heal. This types of skin cancer is treated in our office and are easily removed so that the cancer won’t spread.
Squamous Cell – is the second most common type of skin cancer, frequently appearing as small pink bumps on the skin, usually in areas with abundant sun exposure. This type of skin cancer is also easily removed in one visit at our office.
Melanoma – is the most serious and aggressive type of skin cancer. It can appear anywhere on the body at any age usually in the form of a mole on the skin. Treatments for melanoma vary depending on the severity and location, but if caught early treatment is very successful. Prevention is the best way to protect your skin from skin cancer. Annual skin exams are important for early detection. Also being aware of the characteristics of melanoma so that you can seek treatment early is key. Here are some of the signs to watch for, these are called the ABCDE’s of Melanoma:
- A is for Asymmetry – An asymmetrical mole has sides that do not match.
- B is for Border – The borders of melanomas tend to be uneven, with scalloped or notched edges.
- C is for Color – Melanomas are often multicolored, in shades of brown or black, or even red, white or blue.
- D is for Diameter – Melanomas are usually bigger than a pencil eraser (1/4″ or 6mm) in diameter.
- E is for Evolving – Common moles look the same over time. Keep an eye out for moles that evolve or change in any way.