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Alternative names Return to top
Cancer - skinDefinition Return to top
Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of skin cells. If left unchecked, these cancer cells can spread from the skin into other tissues and organs.
There are different types of skin cancer. Basal cell carncinoma is the most common. Melanoma is less common, but more dangerous.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
The outer layer of skin, the epidermis, is made up of different types of cells. Skin cancers are classified by the types of epidermal cells involved:
Skin cancers are sometimes classified as either melanoma or nonmelanoma. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common nonmelanoma skin cancers. Other nonmelanoma skin cancers are Kaposi's sarcoma, Merkel cell carcinoma, and cutaneous lymphoma.
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the Unites States. Known risk factors for skin cancer include the following:
Skin cancer can develop in anyone, not only people with these risk factors. Young, healthy people -- even those with with dark skin, hair, and eyes -- can develop skin cancer.
Symptoms Return to top
Skin cancers can have many different appearances. They can be small, shiny, or waxy; scaly or rough; firm and red; crusty or bleeding; or have other features. Therefore, anything suspicious should be looked at by a physician. See the individual articles on specific skin cancers for more information.
Here are some features to look for:
Treatment Return to top
Different types of skin cancer require different treatment approaches. See the specific type of skin cancer for information:
Support Groups Return to top
For additional resources, see cancer support group.Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
The outlook depends on a number of factors, including the type of cancer and how soon it was diagnosed. See the specific skin cancer articles for additional information.
Calling your health care provider Return to top
Any suspicious mole, sore, or skin growth should be looked at by a physician immediately. Take any changes in a mole or sudden growth of a skin lesion seriously.
Prevention Return to top
Minimizing sun exposure is the best way to prevent skin damage, including many types of skin cancer:
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |