The United States is one of the places in the world where a tan skin tone is perceived as a symbol of beauty and prestige. It is for this reason that millions of Americans try anything – despite the risks – to achieve such complexion.
Whether you’re a sunworshipper, a down-for-whatever type of person all in the name of getting a tan, or just someone who loves the outdoors, among the most important things you can do, aside from making sure your skin is fully protected at all times, is to exercise vigilance. Always make it a habit to check your skin for unusual changes, which may point to cancer.
This blog post covers the most common types of skin cancer along with their symptoms, which you can’t afford to ignore.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
Basal cell carcinoma develops when your skin’s basal cells undergo abnormal changes (mutation) and proliferate uncontrollably. Basal cells are those found in the innermost layer of the epidermis, your skin’s topmost layer. Their function is to divide and produce new skin cells to replace the old ones that slough off the surface of your skin.
See your dermatologist if you notice one or more of the following skin changes:
- Bumps that are shiny and translucent – They can appear either pearly white or pink on fair skin.
- Brown, blue, or brown lesions– These tend to have a slightly raised and translucent border.
- Flat, scaly patch – It can appear flat but with an elevated edge and, over time, grow large.
- Reddish patch or irritated area – This can develop on your arm, shoulder, chest, face, leg, or any area exposed to UV light.
- Open sore – Skin changes that crust, ooze, or bleed.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
Squamous cell carcinoma ranks as the second most common type of cancer. It develops when flat cells (squamous cells), which are present in the outer part of the epidermis, undergo mutation.
The following are some of the hallmarks of SCC. As with BCC, the symptoms of SCC often develop on the arms, chest, face, and legs. If you notice any of the following, reach out to your dermatologist for prompt evaluation and treatment:
- Scaly or rough patches – They appear with irregular borders that may crust or bleed.
- Raised growths or lumps with central dimple or depression
- Open sores that don’t heal – If they do, they can come back.
- Wart-like growths
Melanoma
This type of skin cancer affects the melanocytes, which are the cells that give the skin its protective pigment called melanin.
Unlike BCC and SCC, melanoma can develop even on areas not exposed to UV light. Melanoma is also highly invasive and is responsible for most skin cancer-related deaths.
Use the following mnemonic when monitoring your skin for signs of melanoma:
- Asymmetry – One part of your mole doesn’t match the other.
- Border – Edges of new or existing moles or cells are notched or ragged.
- Color – Your mole appears varied: it has shades of brown or black, and sometimes, red, white, or pink.
- Diameter – The mole’s size is usually bigger than a pencil eraser.
- Evolving – The mole is changing its size, shape, or color.
Skin Cancer Treatment in Coral Gables, Florida
It’s worth keeping in mind that with skin cancer, like any other type of cancer, time is of the essence. Early detection is crucial for the best treatment outcome.
If you’re in search of a trusted skin cancer specialist in the Coral Gables area in Florida, look no further than Dr. Theodore John (T.J.) Giuffrida here at Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center. Dr. Giuffrida has established an excellent reputation for the exceptional outcomes he provides for all types of skin cancer, which is why countless patients from around the world gravitate to our practice.
Schedule a skin cancer screening appointment with Dr. Giuffrida today. Call us at (305) 461-2000 or fill out our simple online form. We look forward to serving you!
