Information about skin cancer

This is the most common type of skin cancer. A basal cell carcinoma is rarely life-threatening, but if left untreated, it can be disfiguring, cause bleeding, and produce local destruction. It develops in the basal cell layer of the skin. This cancer is characterized by an open sore that bleeds, or a shiny, pearly bump.

 Photo source:  The Web site of the National Cancer Institute https://www.cancer.gov/  

This is the second most common form of skin cancer. It is clinically more significant because of its ability to metastasize. Squamous cell carcinoma develops in the epithelial layer of the skin. This cancer is characterized by red, scaly skin that becomes an open sore.

Photo source:  The Web site of the National Cancer Institute https://www.cancer.gov/

This is the least common form of skin cancer; however, it is also the most deadly. If it is recognized and treated early, it is curable. To prevent and detect melanoma, it is recommended to learn what it looks like and to be aware of moles and check for any changes. A popular method for remembering the signs and symptoms of melanoma is the mnemonic "ABCDE"

Asymmetrical skin lesion

Border of the lesion is irregular

Color: melanomas usually have multiple colors

Diameter: moles greater than 5 mm are more likely to be melanoma

Evolution: Recent changes in color or size

 Photo source:  The Web site of the National Cancer Institute https://www.cancer.gov/

The Skin Cancer Foundation

http://www.skincancer.org/

The American Academy of Dermatology

https://www.aad.org/

American College of Mohs Surgery

http://www.mohscollege.org/