SKIN CANCER 1 Skin cancer is caused due

SKIN CANCER 1

Skin cancer is caused due to cancerous growth of skin cells, especially those on the epidermis. Based on the type of cell involved, skin cancer is classified into 3 types: 1. Basal cell carcinoma – basal cells 2. Squamous cell carcinoma – squamous cells 3. Melanoma – cancer of melanocytes 2

Basal cell carcinoma most commonly occuring, appears on face on areas exposed to sunlight. Cancers appear as small red spots, like pimples, lead to bleeding and do not heal for more than 2 months. It is caused by overexposure to uv radiation. 3

Squamous cell carcinoma Second most commonly occuring, appears on face on areas shaded to sunlight, such as back of neck and ears. Cancers appear as large red spots, lead to bleeding and do not heal for more than 2 months. It is caused by overexposure to uv radiation. 4

Melanoma – cancer of melanocytes Melanocytes are the cells that form melanin. Melanoma is very rare and very painful. It’s the only type of skin cancer capable of metastasis. Cancers appear as black rashes, severe bleeding occurs and can spread throughout the body. They get infected by bacteria and there is inflammation. 5

Causes of skin cancer 1. Overexposure to uv radiations causes DNA damage. Basal and squamous cell cancer occur due to direct DNA damage, melanoma due to indirect DNA damage. 2. Genetic inheritance – melanoma is the only type of inherited skin cancer. 3. Harmful chemicals in cosmetics 4. Weak immune system 5. Viral infections such as HPV – human papilloma virus 6

Treatment Moh microsurgery – removal of cancer cells, checking surrounding cells and treatment with chemotherapy and radiation. Cosmetic surgery is done to replace the cancer cells with normal cells Skin grafting is done from the thigh onto the affected areas as these cells regenrate very quickly. Prevention Avoiding exposure to uv – wearing protective clothing, using appropriate amount of sun screen lotions. Avoiding cosmetics containing harmful chemicals 7