Skin Cancer Signs Diagnosis and Stages
Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells, often caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment. Here’s an overview of the signs, diagnosis, and stages of skin cancer:
Signs of Skin Cancer:
Changes in Moles:
Look for changes in the size, shape, color, or texture of existing moles.
New Growths or Sores:
Pay attention to the appearance of new growths, sores, or lesions on the skin that don’t heal.
Irregular Borders:
Skin cancer lesions often have irregular, poorly defined borders.
Variation in Color:
Melanomas may exhibit uneven coloring, with shades of black, brown, tan, red, white, or blue.
Itching or Tenderness:
Persistent itching, tenderness, or pain in a specific area of the skin may be a sign of skin cancer.
Bleeding or Oozing:
Any mole or lesion that bleeds, oozes, or crusts should be evaluated by a healthcare professional such as a Skin Specialist in Karachi.
Changes in Sensation:
Changes in sensation, such as itching, tenderness, or pain, can be indicative of skin cancer.
Diagnosis of Skin Cancer:
Clinical Examination:
A dermatologist will conduct a thorough examination of the skin, looking for any suspicious lesions or moles.
Biopsy:
If a suspicious lesion is identified, a biopsy is performed to remove a sample of tissue for laboratory analysis.
Imaging Tests:
In cases where skin cancer may have spread, imaging tests like CT scans, MRI, or PET scans may be conducted.
Types of Skin Cancer:
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC):
The most common type, usually appears as a shiny, pearly bump or a flesh-colored lesion.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC):
Often looks like a red, scaly patch or a raised bump, and can develop into deeper layers of the skin.
Melanoma:
The most aggressive type, often characterized by changes in the appearance of moles, such as asymmetry, irregular borders, and color variation.
Stages of Skin Cancer:
Skin cancer is staged based on the extent of its spread. The stages may include:
Stage 0 (In Situ):
Abnormal cells are present in the outer layer of the skin but have not invaded deeper tissues.
Stage I:
Cancer is small and localized, not spreading beyond the primary site.
Stage II:
Cancer is larger or may have spread to nearby tissues but not to lymph nodes.
Stage III:
Cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes but not to distant sites.
Stage IV:
Cancer has spread to distant organs or lymph nodes.
Treatment Options:
Surgery:
Removal of the cancerous tissue through excision or Mohs surgery.
Radiation Therapy:
The use of high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells.
Chemotherapy:
Medications to kill cancer cells or slow their growth.
Immunotherapy:
Boosting the body’s immune system to target and destroy cancer cells.
Targeted Therapy:
Drugs targeting specific molecules involved in cancer growth.
Regular skin checks, sun protection measures, and early medical attention for any suspicious skin changes are essential in the prevention and early detection of skin cancer. If you notice any concerning signs, consult with a healthcare professional or Dermatologist in Lahore promptly.