Skin Cancer Reference

There are three major types of skin cancer: Basal Cell Carcinoma, the most common; Squamous Cell Carcinoma the second most common, and Malignant Melanoma the deadliest form of skin cancer. 

                      
Basal Cell Carcinoma              Squamous Cell Carcinoma           Malignant Melanoma

The major factors behind the development of skin cancer are as follows: genetic predisposition, age, and the degree of ultraviolet radiation exposure (i.e., sunburns) which one has experienced. Most sun damage occurs before the age of 18 (90% of your sun damage occurs from 1 to 18 yrs of age) so it is extra important to protect the skin during these years.

There is usually a delay from a series of intensive sun exposures to the first skin cancer occurring. What is concerning to physicians, is that we are seeing an increase in the numbers of skin cancer cases that are occurring in our younger population. Melanoma skin cancer is an example of this, today ranking among the deadliest type of cancer in women between the ages of 25 and 30.
 

Precancerous changes of the skin (referred to as Actinic Keratosis) are also increasing. It is estimated that from 5 to 20% of precancers will develop into skin cancer (Squamous cell subtype) without treatment.

Figure  1. Actinic Keratosis- the earliest form of precancer which can progress into Squamous Cell Cancer.

Prevention and early detection, however, remain the key to an excellent outcome. By quickly recognizing a precancerous lesion, an unusual mole or other non-healing sore spot, you may quickly identify and eliminate any potential cancer risk from your body. 

If you are concerned about a mole or spot, it is wise to have our experts evaluate the lesion. Remember, early prevention and diagnosis gives you the best chance for a cure!

MOH'S SURGERY WEBSITE- A detailed resource for those who could benefit from Moh's surgery- a type of tissue surgery which is aimed to preserve the maximal amount of skin when removing skin cancer. This site was prepared by the Johns Hopkins University Cancer Center. http://www.med.jhu.edu/cancerctr/mohs/mohs.htm.