What is Skin Cancer
There are two main types of skin cancer Melanoma and Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer. Melanoma is the least common but most serious form.
Melanoma is a cancer that forms in the melanocytic cells in the epidermal layer of the skin. It may start as an existing mole but can also start as a new growth on normal skin. More rarely melanomas can be found under the nails, in the eye or on areas of the body not normally exposed to the sun.
Melanoma cancers, if untreated, metastasise - this is where cells from the melanoma break away and migrate to other areas of the body where they can start growing again to a secondary tumour. Malignant melanoma, if found early and treated promptly, can have an excellent diagnosis.
Melanoma Risk Factors
Over exposure to sunlight (ultraviolet radiation) is the main
cause of most skin cancers.
Having a large number of moles (50 – 100) or multiple unusual
moles i.e.uneven outline or uneven colouring.
Fair skin or skin that burns easily is at greater risk of developing melanoma. However dark skinned individuals can develop
melanoma usually on the palms of the hands or soles of
the feet.
The majority of melanomas form in people aged 40 – 60 years, however a significant number develop in individuals under 35 years of age.
People who have had a melanoma are at increased risk of
developing another. Risk is also slightly increased where a close
family member has developed melanoma.
Certain drugs suppress the immune system and can result in
increased risk of developing melanoma.
What are the Symptoms? Change in size, shape or colour of moles Inflammation of moles Moles which have developed a crust or which bleed Moles which are over 7mm in diameter If you experience any of the symptoms described, go to your GP as soon as possible. Similar symptoms can occur in other conditions and does not necessarily mean that you have skin cancer.
Is Treatment available?
Treatment is available, but will be dependant on the type and extent of your disease. This will be discussed and decided with you, by your dermatologist and oncologist.
NMSC is by far the most common type of skin cancer accounting for over 80% of skin cancers diagnosed. This form of skin cancer is rarely fatal but can be disfiguring. It is most commonly found on the backs of hands, neck, face and forearms – sites commonly exposed to UV radiation from the sun.
Non-melanoma skin cancers are usually the result of over exposure to Ultraviolet radiation but may also develop as a result of exposure to dangerous chemicals. Normally exposure to the carcinogen occurs years before the cancer appears.
Types of Non-Melanoma Skin cancer The most common type is basal cell carcinoma, which starts inthe basal cells of the skin and accounts for about three quarters of all skin cancers. They are mostly slow growing and do not usually spread to other parts of the body. If they are left untreated they can form an ulcer. Squamous cell carcinoma, which starts in the outermost layer of the skin, is the second most common form of skin cancer. It accounts for about 1 in 5 cases and if it is left untreated for a long period, it can spread to other parts of the body. It can be completely curable with simple treatment. Non Melanoma Skin Cancer Risk Factors Over exposure to sunlight or artificial UV sources such as sunbedsis the most important factor in the development of these skin cancers. Certain chemicals have been linked to an increased risk of skin cancer e.g coal tar, soot, asphalt, pitch blend, petroleum, hair dye and arsenic among others. Previous Skin Damage - Severe burns to the skin or a historyof ulceration. Radiation Exposure - This can include radiation exposure as part of cancer treatment. Compromised Immune System - Specific drugs such as thoseused as part of organ transplant therapy can result in the later development of a NMSC. Gender - Men have a greater risk of developing this cancer. Age - This cancer usually occurs in the over 50 age group. Solar Keratosis - Otherwise known as sun spots, the presence of these spots increase the risk of developing NMSC. Albinism - Skin Lacking in protective pigment is also at increasedrisk of NMSC. Family Skin Disorders - Conditions such as Xeroderma Pigmentosum and Naevoid Basal Cell Neains Syndrome greatly increase the risk of NMSC.
Symptoms of Non Melanoma Skin cancer A small lump, that is smooth or waxy in appearance. It may bleed,develop a crust and be itchy A flat red spot that is scaly and crusty A firm red lump, that is painless and grows slowly A lump with a scaly or horny top If you experience any of the symptoms described, go to your GP as soon as possible. Similar symptoms can occur in other conditions and does not necessarily mean that you have skin cancer.
Is Treatment available?
Treatment is available, but will be dependant on the type and extent of your disease. This will be discussed and decided with you, by your GP or where necessary you may be referred to a dermatologist for treatment.
If you have any concerns about skin cancer, please call our free and confidential helpline – 0800 783 3339. Alternatively, you can email one of our cancer information nurses directly on infocis@ulstercancer.org