Skin cancer can be described as a malignant growth developing on the skin that can result in various causes. Generally, there are three most known skin cancers, these are: basal cell, squamous cell and melanoma cell cancer. Millikan (2008) states that, usually, skin cancer grows in the epidermis of the skin. Because of this, it is easy to detect skin cancer in their early stages. Presently, there are three widespread types of skin cancer and they named according to the variety of skin cell from which they develops. Unfortunately, unlike other kinds if cancers like lung and pancreas cancers, just a few of the afflicted with skin cancer could die due to skin cancer (Millikan, 2008).
Skin cancer is among the most widespread diagnosed malignancy, it surpasses lung, breast, and prostate cancer. it has been established that melanoma type of skin cancer is the most common of all skin cancers and it is likely the most dangerous. It is estimated that there are more than one million, new skin cancer cases reported every year in the United States (American Cancer Society, 2008). A lot of people currently are dying because of melanoma skin cancer which it is attributed to be on increase because of a lot of sun (Millikan, 2008). However, the most commonly reported cases of skin cancer are those that are non-melanoma. Many of these skin cancer causes are known as Basal Cell carcinomas, which are occurs as localized growths resulting from too much cumulative exposure to the sun.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Skin Cancer estimates
3. Risk factors of skin cancer
4. Types of skin cancer
4.1 Basal cell carcinomas (BCC)
4.2 Squamous cell carcinomas (SCC)
4.3 Melanomas
5. Signs and symptoms of skin cancer
5.1 Basal cell carcinoma symptoms
5.2 Those at risk of developing basal cell cancer
5.3 How basal cell cancer develops
5.4 Squamous cell carcinoma
5.5 Who is likely to be affected with squamous cell cancer?
5.6 Places squamous cell cancer develops
6. Melanoma
6.1 Where melanoma is mainly located
6.2 Risk factors associated with melanoma
6.3 Symptoms associated with melanoma
6.4 Differentiating between melanoma and benign moles
7. Treatment of skin cancer
8. Preventing skin cancer
9. Conclusion
Objectives and Topics
The primary objective of this work is to provide a comprehensive overview of skin cancer, detailing its classification, etiology, diagnosis, and treatment strategies, while addressing the rising global incidence rates and preventive measures.
- Types and characteristics of skin cancer (basal cell, squamous cell, and melanoma)
- Primary risk factors, including UV radiation exposure and genetic predispositions
- Clinical diagnostic procedures and biopsy methods
- Therapeutic approaches ranging from surgery to topical treatments
- Public health strategies for the prevention and early detection of malignancies
Excerpt from the Book
Treatment of skin cancer
Sokhumi and Tobias (2003) asserts that, treatment of skin cancer depends on the particular type of cancer, the specific spot the cancer as grown, how old the patient is, and if that cancer is a primary one, or a secondary one, meaning it has recurred. Before getting the treatment, the type of skin cancer is assessed first, whether it is carcinoma, squamous or melanoma. This is undertaken so that a correct and the best type of treatment can be given. For instance, a tiny basal cell cancer appearing on a cheek of a teenager, the best way of treating such a case would be through carrying out a mohs surgery (Sokhumi and Tobias, 2003).
However, in the case of an elderly weak man having multiple complex medical complications, having a basal cell cancer oh his nose, it will be difficult to carry out a surgery to remove the basal cell, those in this case radiation will be the best way if treating such a patient. Or the doctors can chose not to treat the patient at all since that basal cell cancer is not dangerous, the elderly weak patient could be advised to live with it.
Summary of Chapters
1. Introduction: Defines skin cancer as a malignant growth and introduces the three primary types while highlighting the alarming rise in global case numbers.
2. Skin Cancer estimates: Provides statistical data from the WHO regarding the prevalence of skin-related malignancies and the steady increase in reported cases over time.
3. Risk factors of skin cancer: Analyzes the link between skin irritation, specifically UV radiation from the sun or artificial tanning, and DNA damage leading to cancer.
4. Types of skin cancer: Outlines the clinical characteristics and biological behavior of basal cell, squamous cell, and melanoma cancers.
5. Signs and symptoms of skin cancer: Describes clinical manifestations for various cancer types and identifies high-risk demographic groups.
6. Melanoma: Focuses specifically on the most dangerous form of skin cancer, detailing its symptoms, location, and the importance of differentiating it from benign moles.
7. Treatment of skin cancer: Discusses various medical interventions, including surgery, cryotherapy, and chemotherapy, based on patient condition and cancer type.
8. Preventing skin cancer: Reviews preventive strategies, such as sun protection and behavioral changes, while noting the long latency periods of skin cancer.
9. Conclusion: Summarizes the key findings, reiterating that early detection and proper management are critical for successfully treating skin cancer.
Keywords
Skin Cancer, Melanoma, Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Ultraviolet Radiation, UV Exposure, Skin Biopsy, Mohs Surgery, Malignancy, DNA Destruction, Sunscreen, Prevention, Dermatology, Oncology, Pigmentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this document?
This work provides an overview of the nature of skin cancer, covering its different types, causes, diagnostic methods, and established treatment protocols.
What are the main types of skin cancer discussed?
The document focuses on the three most common types: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and malignant melanoma.
What is the central research objective?
The goal is to inform about the severity, risk factors, and prevention strategies for skin cancer to improve understanding of its clinical management.
Which scientific methods are referenced?
The text reviews clinical data, statistical information from organizations like the WHO and American Cancer Society, and medical literature regarding biopsy and surgical techniques.
What does the main body cover?
It covers the biological impact of UVA/UVB rays, the specific symptoms of different cancer types, diagnostic procedures like biopsies, and treatment modalities such as Mohs surgery.
Which keywords define this work?
Keywords include skin cancer, melanoma, UV radiation, skin biopsy, and malignancy.
How does UV exposure specifically damage the skin?
UVA rays penetrate deeper into the dermis and hypodermis, affecting elasticity and causing aging, while UVB rays primarily damage the epidermis, leading to redness and blistering.
Why is early detection critical for melanoma?
Melanoma is the most dangerous and deadly type of skin cancer; while it accounts for a large percentage of skin cancer deaths, it can be effectively treated if diagnosed early.
How can individuals differentiate between a normal mole and melanoma?
The text suggests monitoring for asymmetry, changes in color, size, or shape, and bleeding or itching as primary warning signs.
- Quote paper
- Clinton Kelly (Author), 2013, Skin Cancer. Cases and causes, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/271713
