A skin cancer specialist, typically a dermatologist with advanced training, is a medical professional focused on diagnosing, treating, and managing skin cancer. These experts possess a deep understanding of the various forms of skin cancer and utilize specialized techniques to identify suspicious growths. Understanding the different types of skin cancer can help you know when it is time for a consultation. Here’s information on the three main types of skin cancer:
Basal Cell Carcinoma
A skin cancer specialist develops a management plan tailored to the specific type and stage of the cancer. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer. It arises from the basal cells in the lower part of the epidermis, the skin’s outer layer. These cancers tend to grow slowly and rarely spread to other parts of the body, but they can cause significant local damage if not addressed.
The primary risk factor for BCC is long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Some individuals who are at a higher risk of developing BCC are those who have:
- Fair Skin
- Light-colored Eyes
- A History of Frequent Sunburns
Signs of BCC can vary but often appear as a pearly or waxy bump, a flat, flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion, or a bleeding or scabbing sore that heals and then returns. These growths are most commonly found on sun-exposed areas like the face, neck, and hands.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type of skin cancer. It originates in the squamous cells, which make up the middle and outer layers of the skin. While SCC is usually not life-threatening, it can be more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma and has a higher potential to spread to other tissues, lymph nodes, or organs if left untreated.
Similar to BCC, prolonged exposure to UV radiation is the main cause of SCC. Other risk factors include having a weakened immune system, a history of radiation therapy, or exposure to certain chemicals. SCC often presents as a firm, red nodule, a flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface, or a sore that heals and re-opens. It typically develops in areas frequently exposed to the sun, like the face, ears, lips, and back of the hands.
Melanoma
Melanoma is a less common but more serious type of skin cancer because of its significant potential to spread. It develops in the melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin, which is the pigment that gives skin its color. While it can occur anywhere on the body, it often appears in existing moles or as a new, unusual-looking spot.
Key risk factors for melanoma include intense, intermittent UV exposure that leads to sunburn, having many moles, a personal or family history of melanoma, and fair skin. Early warning signs are often identified using the ABCDE guide:
- Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other.
- Border: The edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred.
- Color: The color is not uniform and may include shades of brown or black, or patches of pink, red, white, or blue.
- Diameter: The spot is larger than 6 millimeters across (about the size of a pencil eraser), though melanomas can sometimes be smaller.
- Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, color, or is a new lesion.
Contact a Skin Cancer Specialist
Regular self-examinations of your skin can help you notice any new or changing growths. If you identify any spot or lesion that concerns you, a professional evaluation is recommended. A skin cancer specialist can provide a diagnosis and discuss appropriate steps for management. Early detection and consultation with an expert are fundamental to addressing skin health concerns effectively.
