Skin Cancer (SC)
Skin Cancer (SC): Types, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Skin cancer (SC) is the abnormal growth of skin cells, often caused by DNA damage due to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It is the most common type of cancer globally and can range from mild forms to aggressive malignancies. Below is a detailed overview of skin cancer, including its types, causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
Types of Skin Cancer (SC)
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC):
- Characteristics: The most common type, accounting for about 80% of cases. It originates from basal cells in the epidermis.
- Appearance: Pearly or waxy bumps, often with central ulcers or scars. Typically found on sun-exposed areas like the face and neck.
- Behavior: Slow-growing and rarely metastasizes but can invade nearby tissues if untreated[1][4][6].
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC):
- Characteristics: The second most common type, arising from squamous cells in the epidermis.
- Appearance: Scaly patches, red nodules, or ulcers on sun-exposed areas such as the lips, ears, and hands.
- Behavior: More aggressive than BCC and may metastasize if untreated[1][4][6].
- Characteristics: The most dangerous type, originating from melanocytes (pigment-producing cells).
- Appearance: Irregular moles with asymmetry, uneven borders, varied colors, or large sizes; may arise from existing moles or new growths.
- Behavior: Rapidly spreads to other organs if not detected early[1][4][6].
Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC):
- Characteristics: A rare but aggressive cancer originating in Merkel cells involved in tactile sensation.
- Appearance: Firm nodules on the face, head, or neck; often pink or red in color[1][4][6].
Causes and Risk Factors
UV Radiation Exposure:
- Sunlight and artificial sources like tanning beds are the primary causes of DNA damage leading to skin cancer[3][6].
Other Risk Factors:
- Fair skin, light hair/eyes, history of sunburns.
- Family history of skin cancer or genetic predisposition (e.g., xeroderma pigmentosum).
- Immunosuppression due to medications or medical conditions[3][6].
Symptoms
- Changes in existing moles (size, shape, color).
- Non-healing sores or ulcers that bleed easily.
- New growths such as lumps or nodules that are red, pale, or pearly in color.
- Scaly patches or crusty lesions on sun-exposed areas[1][4][6].
Diagnosis
- Visual Examination: Dermatologists assess suspicious lesions for asymmetry, irregular borders, color variation, and size changes (ABCDE rule for melanoma).
- Biopsy: Tissue samples are analyzed to confirm malignancy and determine the type of skin cancer[4][8].
Treatment Options
Surgical Removal:
- Primary treatment for most skin cancers; involves excision of the tumor with surrounding healthy tissue[7].
Radiation Therapy:
- High-energy rays target cancer cells; often used for larger tumors or those that cannot be surgically removed[2][7].
Chemotherapy:
- Topical creams for localized cancers; systemic chemotherapy for advanced cases[2][7].
- Combines light-sensitive drugs with specific wavelengths of light to destroy cancer cells[2].
Targeted Drug Therapy and Immunotherapy:
- Drugs like checkpoint inhibitors boost immune response against melanoma; targeted therapies attack specific mutations in cancer cells[2][7].
Cryotherapy and Curettage:
- Freezing small cancers with liquid nitrogen or scraping them off with curettage tools for superficial lesions[7].
Prevention Strategies
- Avoid excessive sun exposure; use sunscreen with SPF 30+ daily.
- Wear protective clothing and hats outdoors.
- Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps.
- Regularly examine skin for changes and consult a dermatologist for suspicious lesions[3][6].
Conclusion
Skin cancer is highly treatable when detected early but can become life-threatening if left untreated—especially melanoma and Merkel cell carcinoma. Regular self-examinations and preventive measures are crucial for reducing risk. Treatment options vary based on the type and stage of cancer but often involve surgery combined with other therapies.
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References
- Title: Advances in Skin Cancer Therapy: Targeted and Immunotherapy Approaches
DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2023.01.005
Summary: Discusses recent advancements in skin cancer treatment, focusing on targeted therapies and immunotherapy for melanoma and other aggressive skin cancers. - Title: Photodynamic Therapy for Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer: Mechanisms and Clinical Applications
DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1008321
Summary: Explores the use of photodynamic therapy (PDT) in treating basal and squamous cell carcinomas, highlighting its efficacy and minimal invasiveness. - Title: Epidemiological Trends in Skin Cancer and Prevention Strategies
DOI: 10.1038/s41591-022-01734-2
Summary: Reviews global trends in skin cancer incidence and prevention strategies, emphasizing the role of UV protection and early detection programs.
