In the overall structure of cancer, skin cancer accounts for about 10% of cases. Elderly patients are at risk, and the probability of skin cancer is the same for men and women. It has been proven that people with a light skin type who live in hot countries or high mountains, i.e. in those regions where solar activity is maximum, have an increased risk of cancer. Patients who have to spend long periods of time outdoors due to their work are also at risk.
Causes
The appearance of any malignant neoplasm is a consequence of a malfunction in the body: normally, the immune system destroys defective cells before they begin to divide uncontrollably. If for some reason the protective mechanisms do not work, the tumor increases in size and becomes invulnerable to its own protective system. In the case of cancer, the most dangerous environmental factors that increase the likelihood of tumor development are ultraviolet and ionizing radiation, as well as exposure to aggressive chemicals.
Experts note that malignant skin neoplasms, in particular melanoma, are often provoked by visiting a solarium: the fashion for bronze tanning has led to a significant increase in the frequency of malignant neoplasms.
Signs of skin cancer
It is important not to miss the beginning of the oncological process, the signs of which vary depending on its type. There are several common indicators that should be taken into account for timely diagnosis:
- the appearance of new spots or moles on the skin that rapidly change size, shape or color;
- changes in existing nevi, their sudden asymmetry, bleeding, discoloration;
- asymmetry of one half of the formation in relation to the other, jagged edges, blurred outlines;
- presence of different color pigments (black, brown, blue, red);
- increase in size, thickness or height (elevation) above the level of the epidermis;
- non-healing skin ulcerations;
- painful, prolonged itching, bleeding foci;
- flaky, rough, scaly dry patches on the skin;
- formations with pronounced blood vessels, telangiectasia.
What tests and examinations will show cancer?
Diagnosis and treatment of malignant skin tumors is performed by an oncologist. Methods for diagnosing skin cancer may include:
- skin examination (cancer produces bumps, bleeding moles, and spots of different colors on the body);
- history taking (complaints);
- analysis for oncomarkers;
- dermatoscopy (examination of neoplasms using a dermatoscope that provides multiple magnification of the image);
- computerized tomography.
Laboratory tests of samples of affected tissues may also be performed. Differential diagnosis of cancerous tumors of the skin allows to exclude benign neoplasms, psoriasis, seborrheic keratosis, sebaceous gland hyperplasia, as well as blood cancer, in which leukemoid nodules may appear on the skin.
How is skin cancer treated?
The main method of therapy used to treat cancer is surgery. Surgery involves removing the dangerous growth on the skin and the tissue surrounding the malignant tumor. Other treatments for skin cancer may include:
- Immunotherapy (performed to increase the efficiency of the immune system, which detects and destroys cancer cells);
- Chemotherapy (prescribed in the last stages of skin cancer that is beginning to spread throughout the body);
- Radiation therapy. Radiation therapy sessions may be given to reduce the size of large melanomas and to control and relieve symptoms of the disease.
It is important to avoid the use of folk (home) methods of skin cancer treatment, which do not have a scientific basis (in particular, do not smear the affected areas with handmade herbal remedies).
Can skin cancer be cured permanently?
Almost all types of malignant skin tumors are treatable. The risk of recurrence and survival rates depend directly on the timely initiation of skin cancer therapy. For example, melanoma and squamous cell skin cancer are equally treatable at the initial stage.
What happens if skin cancer is left untreated?
If skin cancer is not treated, there is an increased risk of complications from the disease. Complications of skin cancer may include:
- metastasis of tumor cells to other parts of the body (including vital organs);
- severe pain;
- localized growth of the tumor (for example, a red dot on the skin may grow into a spot).
Large tumors on the face and exposed skin areas can provoke psycho-emotional disorders. For example, against the background of oncology, self-esteem may decrease or depression may occur.
Can cancer be prevented?
To prevent cancer, it is recommended to use broad-spectrum creams with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. The cream, which should be used daily in all weathers, should be applied to exposed skin half an hour before going outdoors. You should also tan properly, limiting exposure to direct sunlight (especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.). Other methods of skin cancer prevention may include:
- Application of special protective balms with SPF on the lips;
- Avoid going to tanning salons;
- Wearing protective clothing with long sleeves, hats and sunglasses;
- Prior agreement with a doctor on the regimen of any medications. Some medications may increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun (e.g., some antibiotics, antifungals, or cholesterol-lowering drugs).
As part of cancer prevention, it is recommended to perform monthly self-examination, checking the entire skin for spots, tumors, any changes in the size, shape or color of moles (if necessary, you can use mirrors). You should also undergo preventive examinations by a dermatologist at least once a year (and urgently if you have any complaints).
Conclusion
Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers, but with timely diagnosis and competent treatment, most of its forms can be successfully treated. The main role in prevention is the protection of the skin from the aggressive effects of ultraviolet light, regular checkups with a dermatologist and careful attention to any changes in the skin. The use of sunscreen, avoiding tanning beds, wearing protective clothing and timely detection of suspicious neoplasms help to significantly reduce the risk of developing the disease. It is important to remember that early referral to a doctor at the first alarming symptoms is a key factor in successful treatment and prevention of serious complications.
