Virtually every adult has a few moles somewhere on their body. For most, these will never be an issue, even though the moles may change slightly in appearance over time. More rapid change, however, can be a sign of developing skin cancer.
What Is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer is a condition that occurs when the skin cells begin to grow abnormally. It typically develops on the areas that are exposed to the sun most frequently. It is estimated that there are 3.5 million people in the United States with skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer.
Different Types Of Skin Cancer
There are three main types of skin cancer, basal cell skin cancer and squamous cell skin cancer and melanoma. Basal cell skin cancer develops inside of the basal cell layer of the skin. This form of cancer typically develops on the face. Basal cell skin cancer is the most common type of skin cancer in lighter-skinned people.
Squamous cell skin cancer develops inside of the squamous skin cells. This form of cancer usually develops on the feet or legs. It is most common in darker-skinned people.
Melanoma is the form of skin cancer that develops in the melanocytes, which are the cells that give the skin pigmentation. This is the least common, but most deadly form of skin cancer. Melanoma can develop on any surface of the skin.
Treatments
There are several treatments available for skin cancer. The type of treatment that is recommended is dependent upon the size, type and location of the cancer. Freezing, excisional surgery and Mohs surgery are the treatments that are often recommended for skin cancer. Excisional surgery involves cutting out the cancerous tissue and a small portion of the surrounding skin. Mohs surgery involves removing the skin growth layer by layer until all of the abnormal cells are gone.
Cryotherapy is another treatment that can be used. This is a treatment that involves freezing abnormal cells in order to destroy them.
Prevention
Wearing sunscreen is one of the best things that can be done to prevent skin cancer. Sunscreen helps shield the skin from ultraviolet rays. You also need to make sure that you have your skin examined at least once a year for abnormalities. You should contact Tucson med spa Specialists in Dermatology if you are interested in a dermatology examination.
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