Skin cancer
Skin cancer is an abnormal growth of skin cells, most often caused by damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The most common types are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, which begin in the outer layers of skin. Melanoma, which develops from pigment-producing melanocytes, is less common but more likely to spread. Less common types include Merkel cell carcinoma and certain skin lymphomas.
Symptoms to Watch For
- A new or changing spot on the skin
- Moles that grow or change in color or shape
- Sores that do not heal
- Raised bumps that may bleed or crust
- Areas of scaly or rough skin
Melanoma Warning Signs (ABCDE Rule)
- Asymmetry – one half of the mole doesn’t match the other
- Border – edges are irregular or blurred
- Color – variation in color within the same spot
- Diameter – larger than 6 mm
- Evolution – any change over time
Causes and Risk Factors
Skin cancer is primarily caused by UV exposure from the sun and tanning beds. Other risk factors include:
- Fair skin
- History of sunburns, especially in childhood
- Many or atypical moles
- Older age
- Male sex (for some types)
- Family or personal history of skin cancer
- Weakened immune system
- Certain genetic conditions
Diagnosis
Diagnosis begins with a thorough skin exam by a healthcare provider, often using a dermatoscope for a closer look. Suspicious spots may be biopsied to determine type and depth. For melanoma and advanced cases, additional tests like imaging or sentinel lymph node biopsy may be needed to check for spread.
Prevention and Early Detection
Protecting your skin is key. TidalHealth recommends:
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
- Sun-protective clothing and hats
- Avoiding tanning beds
- Limiting sun exposure during peak hours
- Regular skin checks at home and with a healthcare provider, especially if you have risk factors
Early detection and treatment improve outcomes and reduce the risk of complications.
What are the main types of skin cancer?
Basal cell carcinoma (slow-growing, rarely spreads), squamous cell carcinoma (can be locally aggressive, sometimes spreads), melanoma (less common, more likely to spread), and rarer types such as Merkel cell carcinoma.
What should I look for on my skin?
Watch for new growths, sores that don’t heal, spots that bleed or crust, and changes in moles. Use the ABCDE rule for melanoma detection.
Who is at higher risk?
People with fair skin, light hair and eyes, many or atypical moles, a personal or family history of skin cancer, significant sun exposure or tanning bed use, older age, or a weakened immune system.
How is skin cancer diagnosed?
Through a careful skin exam. Suspicious spots are usually biopsied. For melanoma or higher-risk cases, additional tests may be used to check for spread.
Can skin cancer be prevented?
Many cases can be prevented with sunscreen, protective clothing, seeking shade, avoiding tanning beds, and regular skin checks.
What are common treatments?
Treatment depends on type and stage and may include:
- Surgical removal or Mohs micrographic surgery
- Curettage and electrodessication
- Topical medications for thin cancers
- Cryotherapy (freezing)
- Radiation therapy
- Advanced therapies such as immunotherapy or targeted drugs for melanoma or cancers that have spread
What is the outlook?
Most early-detected basal cell and squamous cell cancers have excellent outcomes. Early-stage melanoma can often be cured with surgery. Advanced melanoma prognosis is more serious, but newer treatments have improved outcomes.
When should I see a doctor?
See a healthcare provider for new, changing, bleeding, or non-healing spots, or if you are concerned about a mole. High-risk individuals should discuss regular skin checks.
Are moles dangerous?
Most moles are harmless. Moles that change in size, shape, color, or cause symptoms should be evaluated.
What about children and sun protection?
Children need consistent sun protection, including sunscreen, clothing, hats, and shade. Childhood sunburns increase lifetime risk of skin cancer.
Where can I get more information or support?
Talk to your primary care practitioner or a dermatologist. If diagnosed, your care team can guide you through treatment options and available support resources.
