Skin Cancer Basics

Skin cancer is the growth of abnormal skin cells that form tissue at an uncontrollable and unpredictable rate. It is the most common and rapidly increasing form of cancer in the United States. Below, we explore the causes, types, and essential facts about skin cancer.

What Causes Skin Cancer?

The leading cause of skin cancer is overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, whether from sunlight or tanning beds. UV light damages DNA with repeated exposure, and the effects accumulate over time, often leading to skin cancer in later adulthood. Other contributing factors include:

• Heredity: A family history of skin cancer increases risk, especially in fair-skinned individuals.
• Medical and industrial exposure: Repeated X-rays, scarring from severe diseases or burns, and exposure to certain chemicals can contribute.
• Immunosuppression: Patients with weakened immune systems, such as organ transplant recipients or those with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), are at higher risk.

What Are the Types of Skin Cancer?

The three most common types of skin cancer account for approximately 99% of all skin cancers. These include:

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

• Prevalence: The most common type, accounting for 80% of all skin cancer cases.
• Characteristics: BCC typically appears as a small, pearly or pink bump, a scar-like growth, or a scaly area. It grows slowly and rarely spreads, but can cause significant local damage if untreated.
• Treatment: Surgical removal, such as Mohs micrographic surgery, is highly effective.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

• Prevalence: The second most common type of skin cancer.
• Characteristics: SCC often appears as a persistent rough, scaly patch or a hard red bump. It can metastasize, especially when located on the ears, scalp, lips, or genitalia.
• Risk Factors: Immunosuppressed patients and those with recurrent tumors are at higher risk.
• Treatment: Options include surgical excision, Mohs surgery, or radiation therapy.

Malignant Melanoma (MM)

• Prevalence: Although less common, melanoma is the most dangerous type, responsible for 75% of skin cancer-related deaths.
• Characteristics: Melanoma often appears as a mole with mixed shades of brown and black, asymmetry, and irregular borders. It can also develop as a new mole or a red or white lesion.
• Risk Factors: Sunburn, light skin, light eyes, and a family history of melanoma increase risk.
• Treatment: Early detection and surgical removal are critical for a high cure rate.

How Can Skin Cancer Be Treated?

Depending on the type, stage, and severity of the cancer, there are several ways to treat it. The main goal is always to remove or destroy the cancerous cells while keeping as much healthy tissue as possible. Some of the most common treatments include:

Surgical Treatments

• Mohs Micrographic Surgery: A precise technique to remove cancer while preserving healthy tissue, ideal for sensitive areas like the face or neck.
• Electrodessication and Curettage (ED & C): Scraping and burning the tumor, often used for small basal or superficial squamous cell carcinomas.
• Surgical Excision: Removing the tumor along with a margin of healthy skin, followed by pathology examination.

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Topical Chemotherapy: Creams like fluorouracil target and destroy cancer cells.
• Immunotherapy: Creams like imiquimod stimulate the immune system to fight cancer.
• Photodynamic Therapy: Combines a topical chemical with light exposure to eliminate cancer cells.
• Radiation Therapy: Multiple sessions over weeks, often for non-surgical candidates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the primary causes of skin cancer?

The leading cause of skin cancer is overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from sunlight or tanning beds. Repeated UV exposure damages your skin cells' DNA over time, and this sun damage accumulates as you age. Heredity also plays a significant role, meaning a family history of skin cancer can increase your overall risk.

Who is at the highest risk for developing skin cancer?

Individuals with fair skin who sunburn easily face a particularly high risk for skin cancer. Other high-risk groups include people with a family history of the disease, individuals who have experienced severe burns or radiation exposure, and patients with compromised immune systems, such as organ transplant recipients.

Which type of skin cancer is the most dangerous?

Malignant melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer. While it is less common than basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma has a strong tendency to spread rapidly to other organs if left untreated. Early detection and prompt surgical removal provide the highest cure rate.

What should I do if I notice an abnormal mole or skin change?

If you observe any new, growing, or changing skin lesions, you should schedule a professional evaluation with a board-certified dermatologist promptly. A specialist can accurately diagnose and treat all forms of skin cancer. For certain types of skin cancer, fellowship training in Mohs micrographic surgery allows for precise and effective treatment tailored to your specific medical needs.

Skin Cancer Doctor in Miami, Florida

If you are concerned about changes to your skin, don’t hesitate to consult with a highly qualified dermatologist like Dr. T.J. Giuffrida, founder of Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center in Miami, Florida. Board-certified and fellowship trained with more than 20 years of experience in practice, Dr. Giuffrida is recognized as one of the leading authorities on skin cancer.

To schedule an appointment, call our office today at (305) 461-2000 or use our secure online Request an Appointment form.