Carcinoma of the skin is the most common type of cancer, affecting more than 2 million Americans every year. The two principal types of skin cancer respectively affect the basal and the squamous cells, which are found in different layers of the skin. Both types of cancer are easily treatable if detected in their early stages, although both are potentially dangerous.
What you should know about basal cell carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma, which is by far the most prevalent form of cancer, develops in the deepest layer of the skin. However, it grows slowly and generally does not migrate to other parts of the body. Often revealing itself as a shiny bump or red patch, basal cell carcinoma may also develop in the form of a small dome containing blood vessels. This type of cancer usually occurs in the areas of the head, neck, chest, back and shoulders.
Facts about squamous cell carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma develops in the upper layer of the skin. Considerably more aggressive than the basal cell type, this form of cancer may spread to the lymph nodes or other organs in the body if not treated in sufficient time. Often beginning as a dome-shaped bump or patch, squamous cell carcinoma may also develop within an existing scar or sore. The cancer usually appears in and around the face, including the lips and ears, and in the hands, arms and legs.
Skin cancer treatment options offered in Orange County
In both types of cancer, the treatment usually involves the surgical removal of the growth, although medications taken orally or applied topically may be sufficient in some cases. Since both forms of cancer are usually related to excessive exposure to ultraviolet rays, the avoidance of sunlight during peak hours and of tanning beds are key to prevention. Those who do go out in sunny conditions should use a high-quality sunscreen product. Regular physical examinations are also important in dealing with any form of cancer, and any suspicious lesions on the skin should immediately be checked by a skin cancer dermatologist.