Skin CancerSkin cancer is a disease in which cells are cancerous (malignant) in the outer layers of the skin. The skin protects the body against heat, light, infections and wounds. It also stores water, fat and vitamin D.

The skin is composed of two main layers and several kinds of cells. The outer layer of skin called the epidermis. It contains three kinds of cells: squamous cells in the form of flakes on the surface called squamous cells, round cells called basal cells and cells called melanocytes which give the skin its color.

The inner layer of skin called the dermis. This layer is thicker and contains blood vessels, nerves and sweat glands. Hair (hair) of the skin also grows in tiny pockets called follicles in the dermis. The dermis produces sweat, which helps cool the body, and oils that prevent dry skin.

There are several types of cancer that originate in the skin. The most common are basal cell cancer and squamous cell cancer, which are included in this summary of information.

These cancers of the skin cancers are called non-melanoma skin. Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that originates in melanocytes. It is not as common as breast cancer or basal cell skin cancer, squamous cell, but is much more serious.

Skin cancer is more common among people whose skin is whiter and have spent much time exposed to sunlight. Skin cancer can occur anywhere in the body but is most common in areas with greater exposure to sunlight as the face, neck, hands and arms.

The appearance of skin cancer can vary. The most common sign of skin cancer is a change in the appearance of the skin, such as growth or wound is not healing. Sometimes there may be a small bump. This bulge may be looking smooth, shiny, waxy, or may be red or reddish brown. The skin cancer may also appear as a red rough or scaly. Not all skin changes mean you have cancer, but should see a doctor when you notice a change.

If you have a spot or bump on the skin, the doctor may remove tissue for analysis under a microscope. This procedure is called a biopsy. The biopsy can usually be done in the doctor. Before the biopsy, is given a local anesthetic to numb the area for a short period.

Most skin cancers can be cured non-melanoma. The probability of recovery (prognosis) and choice of treatment depend on the type of skin cancer that you have and how far it has spread.

Other cancers that can affect the skin are cutaneous T-cell, a cancer of the lymphatic system, and Kaposi’s sarcoma. The cancers that have originated elsewhere in the body also can spread (metastasize) to the skin.

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