Skin cancer: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when there is an uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells. Understanding the symptoms, causes, types, and treatment options for skin cancer is crucial for early detection and effective management.

Symptoms of Skin Cancer

The symptoms of skin cancer can vary depending on the type and stage of cancer. However, some common signs to look out for include:

1. New Growths or Sores: Any new growth on the skin or a sore that doesn’t heal within a few weeks could be a warning sign of skin cancer.
2. Changes in Existing Moles or Lesions: Changes in size, shape, color, or texture of an existing mole or skin lesion can indicate cancerous changes.
3. Asymmetry: One half of a mole or birthmark does not match the other half.
4. Border Irregularity: Edges that are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred.
5. Color Variations: Shades of brown, black, tan, white, red, or blue may appear in one spot.
6. Diameter: Lesions that are larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser).
7. Evolving: Any change in size, shape, color, elevation, or new symptoms such as bleeding, itching, or crusting.

Causes of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer primarily results from mutations in the DNA of skin cells. These mutations cause the cells to grow uncontrollably and form a mass of cancer cells. The main causes include:

1. Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation: Prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds is the leading cause of skin cancer. UV radiation damages the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations.
2. Genetic Factors: A family history of skin cancer increases the risk. Certain genetic conditions, such as xeroderma pigmentosum, can also heighten susceptibility.
3. Fair Skin: People with fair skin have less melanin, the pigment that provides some protection against UV radiation, making them more prone to skin cancer.
4. Age: The risk of skin cancer increases with age, as the cumulative exposure to UV radiation over the years takes its toll.
5. Chemical Exposure: Exposure to certain chemicals, such as arsenic, can increase the risk of developing skin cancer.
6. Weakened Immune System: Individuals with a compromised immune system, such as organ transplant recipients, have a higher risk of developing skin cancer.

Types of Skin Cancer

There are several types of skin cancer, each with distinct characteristics and treatment approaches. The main types include:

1. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC):
   • Description: The most common type, BCC arises from the basal cells in the epidermis. It usually appears as a pearly or waxy bump, often with visible blood vessels.
   • Symptoms: A sore that doesn’t heal, a reddish patch, or a shiny bump.
   • Treatment: Surgical removal, topical medications, cryotherapy, or radiation therapy.
2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC):
   • Description: Arises from the squamous cells in the epidermis. It often appears as a firm, red nodule or a flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface.
   • Symptoms: A rough or scaly red patch, an open sore, or a wart-like growth.
   • Treatment: Surgical removal, radiation therapy, cryotherapy, or topical medications.
3. Melanoma:
   • Description: The most dangerous type of skin cancer, melanoma develops in the melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin. It can spread rapidly to other parts of the body.
   • Symptoms: Changes in existing moles, new pigmented or unusual-looking growths.
   • Treatment: Surgical removal, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.
4. Merkel Cell Carcinoma:
   • Description: A rare but aggressive form of skin cancer that starts in the Merkel cells. It appears as a fast-growing, painless nodule on the skin.
   • Symptoms: Firm, shiny nodules on or just beneath the skin and in hair follicles.
   • Treatment: Surgical removal, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy.
5. Cutaneous Lymphoma:
   • Description: A type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that starts in the skin. It can appear as patches, plaques, or nodules.
   • Symptoms: Red, scaly patches or nodules that can be itchy.
   • Treatment: Topical treatments, radiation therapy, phototherapy, or systemic medications.

Treatment of Skin Cancer

Treatment for skin cancer depends on the type, location, and stage of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. Common treatment options include:

1. Surgery:
   • Excisional Surgery: The cancerous tissue and some surrounding healthy tissue are removed.
   • Mohs Surgery: Layers of cancer-containing skin are progressively removed and examined until only cancer-free tissue remains, ideal for BCC and SCC.
2. Radiation Therapy: High-energy beams are used to kill cancer cells. It is often used for cancers that are difficult to treat with surgery.
3. Cryotherapy: Liquid nitrogen is used to freeze and destroy cancerous tissue, typically used for small, early-stage skin cancers.
4. Topical Medications: Creams or ointments containing anti-cancer agents can be applied directly to the skin. These are often used for superficial skin cancers.
5. Photodynamic Therapy: A combination of light and a photosensitizing agent is used to destroy cancer cells.
6. Immunotherapy: Medications that stimulate the immune system to attack cancer cells, used particularly for advanced melanoma.
7. Targeted Therapy: Drugs that target specific genetic mutations in cancer cells, often used for advanced melanoma.
8. Chemotherapy: The use of drugs to kill cancer cells, usually reserved for advanced cases where cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

Prevention of Skin Cancer

Prevention strategies focus on minimizing UV exposure and protecting the skin:

1. Avoid Tanning Beds: The UV radiation from tanning beds can significantly increase the risk of skin cancer.
2. Use Sunscreen: Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating.
3. Wear Protective Clothing: Long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses can provide additional protection from the sun.
4. Seek Shade: Avoid direct sun exposure, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when UV rays are strongest.
5. Regular Skin Checks: Perform self-examinations to detect any changes in moles or skin lesions. See a dermatologist for regular skin screenings.

Conclusion

Skin cancer is a significant health concern, but with early detection and appropriate treatment, the prognosis is often favorable. By understanding the symptoms, causes, types, and treatment options, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their skin and reduce their risk. Regular skin checks and sun safety practices are essential components of skin cancer prevention.