Skin Cancers

The three most common form of skin cancers are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma

Causes:

The risk factors include exposure to ultraviolet rays from sunlight, radiation, immunosuppression, genetics etc.

Symptoms:

Older people have high risk of developing skin cancer. People who have history of long term sun exposure are also at risk.

Skin cancer can appear as a nodule, plaque or ulcer. Pain may not be noted by patients.

Signs:

Skin cancers can have uneven colors, asymmetrical appearance, irregular border, increasing size, ulcers, bleeding, scaling etc.

Investigations:
Skin biopies should be performed for complete examination of the suspected lesions in order to confirm the diagnosis. The skin samples would provide information to determine the type of skin cancers, the aggressiveness and the degree of invasion to the adjacent tissues.
 

Treatments:

Surgical excision is the mainstay of treatment. Skin cancers can be cured if detected early. Sometimes radial therapy could be an adjunvant therapy

General Care:

Avoid excessive sunlight exposure. See doctor if a mole increase in size rapidly or change of colour.