Our skin: -

According to CDC

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. The three major types of skin cancer are the highly curable basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas and the more serious malignant melanoma. The American Cancer Society estimates that during 2003, about 1 million new cases of basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma and about 54,200 new cases of malignant melanoma will be diagnosed. It is also expected that skin cancer will claim the lives of approximately 9,800 Americans.

Exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays appears to be the most important environmental factor involved in the development of skin cancer. When used consistently, sun-protective practices can prevent skin cancer. UV rays from artificial sources of light, such as tanning beds and sunlamps, are as dangerous as those from the sun and should also be avoided. Although both tanning and burning can increase a person's risk for skin cancer, most Americans do not consistently protect themselves from UV rays. A recent survey sponsored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that approximately 43% of white children under age 12 had at least one sunburn during the past year.
 

The Symptoms

Both basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas can appear in a variety of forms.

Basal cell cancers can develop as a small lump on your skin which is smooth and pearly or waxy in appearance. It may bleed sometimes or develop a crust. It may begin to show signs of healing and yet never quite does. Instead, you may see a flat, red spot, which is scaly and crusty. Sometimes there is just a firm, red lump. Skin cancers are usually painless and grow slowly. They can appear anywhere on your body but are most likely to occur on exposed skin, especially your face.

Squamous cell carcinomas often have a scaly appearance. Sometimes they have a hard, horny cap and can feel tender to touch. They are also found on the face, bald scalps, arms, backs of hands and lower legs.

If you notice anything unusual on your skin which does not go away within a month, you should show it to your doctor. There are, however, many other conditions that may appear in the skin which are not cancer, particularly among older people. You may still wish to have these treated for cosmetic reasons.


Signs and symptoms of non-melanoma skin cancer:Most likely to appear on face, neck or other exposed skin.

Small lump
- smooth or waxy
- may bleed
- may develop a crust
- may be itchy
Flat, red spot -- scaly and crusty
Firm, red lump -- painless, growing slowly
Lump with scaly or horny top
 

Staging of Skin Cancer

The stage of a cancer is a term used to describe its size and whether it has spread beyond its original site. Knowing the extent of the cancer helps the doctors to decide on the most appropriate treatment.

Most people with basal cell cancers do not need to have tests to find the stage of the cancer, as it is very rare for them to spread beyond the initial area of skin. Tests will only be done if the cancer is very large.

Although it is rare for squamous cell cancers to spread, tests to find the stage are more likely to be done for these because in some people they may spread.

A commonly used staging system is outlined below:

Stage 0 is also called carcinoma in situ. Carcinoma in situ means that cancer cells are present, but they are all contained in a small area in the top layer of skin (the epidermis) and have not started to spread or grow into deeper layers of skin. Squamous cell stage 0 is also called Bowen’s disease. If it is not treated, it can develop into a squamous cell skin cancer. CancerBACUP can send you information about Bowen’s disease.

Stage 1 The cancer is less than 2cm across and has not spread

Stage 2 The cancer is more than 2cm across and has not spread

Stage 3 The cancer has spread into the tissues under the skin and possibly to nearby lymph nodes

Stage 4 The cancer has spread to another part of the body. This very rarely occurs with squamous or basal cell cancers of the skin.
 

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