Newly Diagnosed with Skin Cancer or Melanoma?
start your cancer education here
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with skin cancer or melanoma, it's important to gather as much information as possible to navigate your cancer journey effectively. At American Cancer Fund, our goal is to provide you with essential knowledge about skin cancer such as symptoms, risk factors, and the latest research advancements to help you become an active participant in your care.
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About Skin Cancer
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Types of Skin Cancer
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Signs and Symptoms
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The ABCDEs of Melanoma
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Resources
Understanding Skin Cancer
Skin cancer, the most common form of cancer in the United States, develops primarily on areas of sun-exposed skin. Although skin cancer risk factors vary, the primary cause is ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or from tanning beds. Fortunately, skin cancer is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer.
Overview of Skin Cancers and Pre-Cancers
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer and is primarily categorized into melanoma and non-melanoma types.
Non-melanoma skin cancers are more prevalent and less aggressive, whereas melanoma is less common but more dangerous. Additionally, there are precancerous conditions like actinic keratosis that require attention to prevent progression to cancer.
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) - The most common form of skin cancer. It usually appears as a slightly transparent bump on the sun-exposed areas of the skin, particularly the face.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) - Another form of non-melanoma skin cancer, typically found on areas of the skin that have been frequently exposed to the sun. It often appears as a firm, red nodule or a flat lesion with a scaly crust.
- Actinic Keratosis (AK) - A common precancerous skin condition that appears as rough, scaly patches on sun-damaged skin. It can develop into squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated.
Detailed Types of Melanoma
Melanoma is a more serious form of skin cancer that can develop anywhere on the body. It is known for its ability to spread deeper into the skin and to other parts of the body. There are several types of melanoma, each with unique characteristics:
Superficial Spreading Melanoma
The most common type, making up about 70 percent of all cases, usually found in young people. It spreads superficially for a long time before penetrating more deeply.
Lentigo Maligna
Appears as a tan, brown, or dark brown discoloration and is mostly found on the sun-damaged skin of the elderly.
Acral Lentiginous Melanoma
This melanoma spreads superficially before penetrating deeper and commonly appears under the nails or on the soles of the feet or palms of the hands. It is prevalent among African-Americans and Asians.
Nodular Melanoma
Usually invasive at the time it is first diagnosed and appears as a bump that is often dark but can be skin tone or other colors. This is the most aggressive type.
Recognizing Early Signs
Being familiar with the signs and symptoms of skin cancer can empower you to seek timely medical advice.
Early detection of skin cancer is vital for effective treatment and improved outcomes. The initial signs of melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, can vary but typically include new unusual growths or changes in existing moles.
The ABCDEs of Melanoma
To help recognize the warning signs of melanoma, dermatologists recommend paying attention to the ABCDEs:
Asymmetry
One half of the mole does not match the other half in shape.
Border
Look for moles with irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined borders.
Color
Varied colors within a mole including shades of brown, tan, black, blue, red, or white are a warning sign.
Diameter
Melanomas are typically larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser) but they may be smaller when first detected.
Evolving
Any change in size, shape, color, elevation, or any new symptom such as bleeding, itching, or crusting could indicate melanoma.
The ABCDEs of Melanoma
To help recognize the warning signs of melanoma, dermatologists recommend paying attention to the ABCDEs:
Asymmetry
One half of the mole does not match the other half in shape.
Border
Look for moles with irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined borders.
Color
Varied colors within a mole including shades of brown, tan, black, blue, red, or white are a warning sign.
Diameter
Melanomas are typically larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser) but they may be smaller when first detected.
Evolving
Any change in size, shape, color, elevation, or any new symptom such as bleeding, itching, or crusting could indicate melanoma.
Additional Warning Signs
In addition to the ABCDEs, be alert for:
- A sore that does not heal.
- Spread of pigment from the border of a spot into surrounding skin.
- Redness or a new swelling beyond the border.
- Change in sensation, such as itchiness, tenderness, or pain
Your awareness and proactive approach to monitoring skin changes are crucial. If you notice any of these signs or other changes in your skin, consult a healthcare provider promptly. Early action is key to managing skin health effectively.
Additional Information and Support
Navigating through a skin cancer diagnosis or wanting to learn more about prevention can be overwhelming. To assist you, we've compiled a selection of comprehensive resources. These guides and websites offer detailed information on various types of skin cancer, treatment options, and preventive measures, helping you to understand and manage your health effectively.
National Comprehensive Cancer Network's Patient Guide
Start on page 8 for a detailed overview of skin cancer and melanoma.
Memorial Sloan Kettering
A more detailed description and treatment options for Basal Cell Carcinoma
Skin Cancer Foundation
More information about Actinic Keratosis from the Skin Cancer Foundation
National Library of Medicine
More information on Squamous Cell Carcinoma can be found at the National Library of Medicine