Cancer is one of the deadliest diseases of human beings and is a major cause of death all over the globe. More than millions of people suffer from cancer/ Skin cancer and a large number of them die from it annually. The mechanisms that underlie the development of cancer or oncogenic transformation of cells, its treatment, and its control have been some of the most intense areas of research in biology and medicine.

What is Skin cancer?

Skin Cancer: Sign , Symptoms and its Treatment.

Skin cancers are cancers that arise from the cells of the skin. They occur due to the abnormal growth of skin cells, or they are caused due to changes or mutations in the DNA within these cells. Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed form of cancer in humans. There are mainly three types of skin cancer basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. The first two, along with several less common skin cancers, are known as nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC).

The major risk factors for developing skin cancer are-

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Some of the Other risk factors include fair skin, a history of sunburns, a weakened immune system, and a family history of skin cancer.

Types of skin cancer:

The most common types of skin cancer are:

Basal cell carcinoma.
Squamous cell carcinoma.
Melanoma.

Basal cell carcinoma:

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer. It develops in the basal cells, which are found in the deepest layer of the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. It usually presents as a raised, smooth, pearly bump on the sun-exposed skin of the head, neck, torso, or shoulders. Sometimes small blood vessels (called telangiectasia) can be seen within the tumor. BCC usually occurs on areas of the skin that are frequently exposed to the sun.

2. Basal cell carcinoma often appears as a small, shiny bump or a pink growth on the skin. It can also present as a sore that does not heal or a scaly patch. BCC tends to grow slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body. However, if left untreated, it can invade nearby tissues and cause damage. This form of skin cancer is the least deadly, and with proper treatment can be eliminated, often without significant scarring.

Signs and symptoms of BCC

It's important to note that these signs and symptoms can vary depending on the location of the BCC and individual factors. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) can present with various signs and symptoms.

A pearly or waxy bump: BCC often appears as a translucent or shiny bump on the skin. It may have a pearly or waxy texture and can be flesh-colored or pink.

A sore that doesn't heal: BCC may manifest as a sore that doesn't heal or a recurring sore that heals and then reopens.

A flat, scaly patch: Some BCCs can resemble a flat, scaly patch on the skin. The patch may be flesh-colored or brown, and it can be mistaken for a rash or eczema.

A pink growth with raised edges: BCC can develop as a pink growth with slightly raised edges. It may have a depressed center and can bleed easily.

Ulceration or crusting: In some cases, BCC can become ulcerated or develop a crust on the surface. This can cause the area to be tender or painful.

Changes in skin texture: BCC may cause changes in the texture of the skin, such as roughness or indentation.

Squamous cell carcinoma:

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a type of skin cancer that develops in the squamous cells, which are thin, flat cells found on the surface of the skin. It is the second most common type of skin cancer, after basal cell carcinoma.

SCC typically appears as a red, scaly patch, a firm bump, or a sore that does not heal. It can occur on any part of the body but is most commonly found in areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, lips, and hands. However, it can also develop in areas that are not frequently exposed to the sun.

While SCC is usually slow-growing and can often be cured if detected early, it has the potential to spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention if you notice any suspicious skin changes or growths

Signs and Symptoms of Squamous cell carcinoma:

The signs and symptoms of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) can vary depending on the location and stage of the cancer. Here are some common signs to be aware of:

Skin changes: SCC often appears as a firm, red bump or a scaly patch on the skin. It may have a rough or crusty surface and can sometimes resemble a wart or a sore that does not heal.

Persistent sores: SCC may present as a sore that does not heal or keeps recurring. It may bleed easily or develop a crust.

Raised growths: Some SCCs may appear as raised, dome-shaped growths on the skin. These growths can be firm and may have a central depression.

Changes in existing moles: SCC can develop from existing moles or appear as new growths on the skin. Look for any changes in the size, shape, color, or texture of moles.

Itching or pain: SCC may cause itching, tenderness, or pain in the affected area. If you experience any discomfort that persists or worsens, it's important to have it checked by a healthcare professional.

Melanoma:

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops in the cells called melanocytes, which produce the pigment melanin that gives color to the skin, hair, and eyes. It is considered the most dangerous form of skin cancer because it can spread to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early.
Melanoma often appears as a new mole or a change in an existing mole. It can occur anywhere on the body, but it is most commonly found in areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, arms, and legs. However, it can also develop in areas that are not typically exposed to the sun, such as the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and under the nails.

Signs and symptoms of melanoma:

The warning signs of melanoma can be remembered using the ABCDE rule:

Asymmetry: One half of the mole or spot does not match the other half.
Border irregularity: The edges of the mole are uneven, ragged, or blurred.
Color variation: The mole has different colors or shades within it, such as black, brown, tan, red, or blue.
Diameter: The mole is larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser), although melanomas can be smaller.
Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, color, or elevation, or if it starts to itch, bleed, or become painful.

Itching, bleeding, or crusting: Melanomas can sometimes become itchy, bleed, or develop a crust on the surface.

Note:

It is important to remember that these symptoms are not exclusive to melanoma and can be caused by other skin conditions.

Treatments Of Skin Cancer:

Treatments Of BCC and SCC:

The treatment for skin cancer varies depending on the type of skin cancer, its stage, location, and other individual factors. Here are common treatment options for nonmelanoma skin cancers, namely basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC):

Surgery: Surgical excision is a common and effective method for removing localized skin cancers. The surgeon removes the cancerous tissue along with a margin of healthy skin to ensure complete removal.

Mohs Surgery: This specialized surgical technique involves removing thin layers of tissue and examining them under a microscope immediately during the procedure. Mohs surgery is often used for skin cancers on the face or areas where preserving healthy tissue is critical.

Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the cancer cells with liquid nitrogen, causing them to die and eventually fall off. Cryotherapy is suitable for certain small skin cancers.

Electrodesiccation and Curettage (ED&C): In this procedure, the cancer is scraped off with a curette, and then the area is cauterized with an electric needle. It is typically used for superficial and low-risk skin cancers.

Radiation Therapy: Radiation may be used for skin cancers that cannot be easily treated with surgery, or for patients who are not good candidates for surgery.

Topical Medications: For certain superficial skin cancers or precancerous lesions, topical medications such as imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil may be prescribed.

Note:

It's important to note that the specific treatment plan is determined by the oncologist or dermatologist based on the individual characteristics of the skin cancer.

Treatment of Melanoma:

The treatment of melanoma, a more aggressive form of skin cancer arising from melanocytes (pigment-producing cells), involves various approaches depending on the stage of the cancer and individual patient factors. Here are common treatment options for melanoma:

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1. Surgery:

Wide Excision: The primary treatment for early-stage melanoma involves surgical removal of the tumor along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete removal.
Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (SLNB): If melanoma has a higher risk of spreading, a sentinel lymph node biopsy may be performed to determine if cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes.

2. Immunotherapy:

Checkpoint Inhibitors: Drugs such as pembrolizumab, nivolumab, and ipilimumab work by stimulating the immune system to target and destroy cancer cells.
Interferon: This medication may be used to stimulate the immune system to fight melanoma cells.

3. Targeted Therapy:

BRAF Inhibitors: For melanomas with specific genetic mutations (e.g., BRAF mutations), drugs like vemurafenib and dabrafenib target these mutations to inhibit cancer cell growth.
MEK Inhibitors: Often combined with BRAF inhibitors, drugs like trametinib target a pathway involved in melanoma cell growth.

4. Chemotherapy:

Traditional chemotherapy may be used for advanced or metastatic melanoma, although it is less commonly the first-line treatment due to the availability of more targeted therapies.

5. Radiation Therapy:

Radiation may be used to treat specific areas where melanoma has spread or cannot be removed surgically.

6. Adjuvant Therapy:

Additional treatments, such as immunotherapy or targeted therapy, may be recommended after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence.

Note:

The choice of treatment depends on factors such as the stage of melanoma, the presence of specific genetic mutations, the overall health of the patient, and the extent of the disease. Early detection is crucial for more favorable outcomes, so regular skin examinations and prompt consultation with a healthcare professional for suspicious skin changes are essential.

Cause of skin cancer:

The primary cause of skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, either from the sun or from artificial sources like tanning beds. UV radiation can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to the development of cancer. More than 90% of cases are caused by exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the Sun. There are several risk factors associated with the development of skin cancer:

Sun Exposure: Prolonged and repeated exposure to the sun's UV rays is a significant risk factor. This includes both intense, intermittent sun exposure (such as sunburns) and chronic, cumulative exposure over time.

Tanning Beds: The use of tanning beds and sunlamps increases the risk of skin cancer. Tanning devices emit UV radiation, which can damage the skin and increase the likelihood of developing skin cancer.

Fair Skin: People with fair skin, light hair, light-colored eyes, and with poor immune responses are generally at higher risk of the harmful effects of UV radiation and have a higher risk of developing skin cancer.

Family History: A person with a family history of skin cancer, especially melanoma, can increase the risk of developing the disease.

Personal History of Skin Cancer: Individuals who have previously suffered from skin cancer are at an alarming risk of developing new skin cancers.

Weakened Immune System: People with weakened immune systems, whether due to medical conditions or medications, or HIV/AIDS are at a higher risk of developing skin cancer.

Certain Genetic Conditions: Inherited genetic conditions, such as xeroderma pigmentosum, increase the sensitivity of skin towards UV radiation and elevate the risk of skin cancer.

Age: The risk of skin cancer in elder persons increases with increases of age, particularly for nonmelanoma skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

Exposure to Certain Chemicals: Exposure to certain chemicals, such as arsenic, may increase the risk of skin cancer.

Large or Numerous Moles: Individuals with a large number of moles or certain types of moles (dysplastic nevi) have an increased risk of developing melanoma.

Prevention:

Some preventive measures are such as:

Sun protection (using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding excessive sun exposure) can help reduce the risk of developing skin cancer.
Avoiding the use of tobacco products.
Decreasing indoor tanning and mid-day sun exposure
Limit sun exposure and avoid tanning beds, because they both involve UV light. UV light is known to damage skin cells by mutating their DNA.

Skin Cancer: Sign , Symptoms and its Treatment.

What is Skin cancer?