Skin cancer

 

 

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer. The two most common types are basal cell cancer and squamous cell cancer. They usually form on the head, face, neck, hands, and arms. Another type of skin cancer, melanoma, is more dangerous but less common.

 

 

Skin cancer is common in people who:

1. Spend a lot of time in the sun or have been sunburned

2. Have light-colored skin, hair, and eyes

3. Have a family member with skin cancer

4. Are over age 50

 

 

Common symptoms are:

1. Unusual skin growth 

2. Bump or sore 

3. Pale patch of skin

4. Waxy or translucent bumps

 

 

Your doctor will examine you physically for any suspicious skin markings and any changes in the way your skin looks.

 

 

Treatment is more likely to work well when cancer is found early. If not treated, some types of skin cancer cells can spread to other tissues and organs.

Treatments include:

1. Surgery

2. Radiation therapy

3. Chemotherapy

4. Photodynamic therapy (PDT)

5. Biologic therapy