What Is Skin Cancer?

Cancer develops when DNA, the molecule found in cells that encodes genetic information, becomes damaged and the body cannot repair the damage. These damaged cells begin to grow and divide uncontrollably. When this occurs in the skin, skin cancer develops. As the damaged cells multiply, they form a tumor. Since skin cancer generally develops in the epidermis, the outermost layers of skin, a tumor is usually clearly visible. This makes most skin cancers detectable in the early stages. Types of Skin Cancer Three types of skin cancer account for nearly 100% of all diagnosed cases. Each of these three cancers begins in a different type of cell within the skin, and each cancer is named for the type of cell in which it begins. Skin cancers are divided into one of two classes - nonmelanoma skin cancers and melanoma. Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer. The different types of skin cancer are: Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): The most common cancer in humans, BCC develops in more than 1 mil ... more

Skin cancers are divided into 2 main types: keratinocyte cancers (basal and squamous cell skin cancers) and melanomas. Basal and squamous cell skin cancers are the most common cancers of the skin. They develop from cells called keratinocytes, the most common cells in the skin. Melanomas are cancers that develop from melanocytes, the cells that make the brown pigment that gives skin its color. Melanocytes can also form benign growths called moles. There are several other types of skin cancers as well, but these are much less common. It is important for doctors to tell these types of skin cancer apart, because they are treated differently. It is also important for you to know what melanomas and basal and squamous cell skin cancers look like. That way, you can find them at the earliest possible stage, when they are cured most easily. Basal and squamous cell cancers (keratinocyte cancers) Basal cell cancers and squamous cell cancers are the most common cancers of the skin. They develop fro ... more

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, more than a million new cases of skin cancer will be diagnosed this year. Skin Cancer is a disease in which cancer (malignant) cells are found in the outer layers of your skin. The most common types are Basal Cell Carcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma. These types of skin cancer are called non-melanoma skin cancer. Melanoma, another type of skin cancer, starts in the melanocytes. It is not as common as basal cell or squamous cell skin cancer, but it is much more serious. Skin cancer is more common in people with light colored skin who have spent a lot of time in the sunlight. Skin cancer can occur anywhere on your body, but it is most common in places that have been exposed to more sunlight, such as your face, neck, hands, and arms. Skin cancer can look many different ways. The most common sign of skin cancer is a change on the skin, such as a growth or a sore that won't heal. Sometimes there may be a small lump. This lump can be smooth ... more

(From the National Cancer Institute PDQ Statement) Skin cancer is a disease in which cancer (malignant) cells are found in the outer layers of your skin. Your skin protects your body against heat, light, infection, and injury. It also stores water, fat, and vitamin D. The skin has two main layers and several kinds of cells. The top layer of skin is called the epidermis. It contains three kinds of cells: flat, scaly cells on the surface called squamous cells; round cells called basal cells; and cells called melanocytes, which give your skin its color. BASAL CELL & SQUAMOUS CELL (From the National Cancer Institute PDQ Statement) There are several types of cancer that start in the skin. The most common are basal cell cancer and squamous cell cancer, which are covered in this PDQ patient information statement. Skin cancer is more common in people with light colored skin who have spent a lot of time in the sunlight. Skin cancer can occur anywhere on your body, but it is most common in place ... more

Skin cancer is a term for a variety of growths on the skin. Other terms are skin tumor and skin malignancy. ... more

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. More than 500,000 new cases are reported each year-and the incidence is rising faster than any other type of cancer. While skin cancers can be found on any part of the body, about 80 percent appear on the face, head, or neck, where they can be disfiguring as well as dangerous. The purpose of this brochure is to educate you about the different types of skin cancer, their causes, and preventive measures you can take; to help you know when to consult a doctor; and to explain the role of the plastic surgeon in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer and other skin growths. Who Gets Skin CancerAnd Why The primary cause of skin cancer is ultraviolet radiation -most often from the sun, but also from artificial sources like sunlamps and tanning booths. In fact, researchers believe that our quest for the perfect tan, an increase in outdoor activities, and perhaps the thinning of the earth's protective ozone layer are behind ... more