Nonmelanoma skin cancer

Overview

Nonmelanoma skin cancer is a type of skin cancer that is not melanoma. It is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for approximately 90% of all skin cancer cases. There are several types of nonmelanoma skin cancer, with the most common being basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

Types of Nonmelanoma skin cancer

Nonmelanoma skin cancer is a broad category that includes several subtypes. Some of the most common subtypes are:

1. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of nonmelanoma skin cancer, accounting for approximately 70% of all cases. It typically appears as a small, shiny bump or a pink or red patch on the skin.
2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): SCC is the second most common type of nonmelanoma skin cancer, accounting for approximately 20% of all cases. It typically appears as a scaly or crusty patch on the skin.
3. Actinic Keratosis (AK): AK is a precursor to SCC and is characterized by small, rough patches on the skin.
4. Dermatofibroma (DF): DF is a benign tumor that can appear as a raised bump on the skin.

Causes of Nonmelanoma skin cancer

The exact cause of nonmelanoma skin cancer is unknown, but several factors have been identified as increasing the risk:

1. UV Radiation: Exposure to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds can increase the risk of developing nonmelanoma skin cancer.
2. Genetic Predisposition: Individuals with a family history of nonmelanoma skin cancer may be at increased risk.
3. Fair Skin: Individuals with fair skin are at increased risk due to their inability to tan and their increased susceptibility to UV radiation.
4. Age: The risk of developing nonmelanoma skin cancer increases with age.

Risk Factors of Nonmelanoma skin cancer

Several risk factors have been identified as increasing the risk of developing nonmelanoma skin cancer:

1. UV Radiation: Exposure to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds can increase the risk.
2. Fair Skin: Individuals with fair skin are at increased risk.
3. Family History: Individuals with a family history of nonmelanoma skin cancer may be at increased risk.
4. Age: The risk of developing nonmelanoma skin cancer increases with age.

Symptoms of Nonmelanoma skin cancer

Preventions of Nonmelanoma skin cancer

Preventing nonmelanoma skin cancer involves taking steps to reduce exposure to UV radiation and avoiding known risk factors:

1. Protective Measures: Wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, and using sunscreen can reduce exposure to UV radiation.
2. Avoiding Tanning Beds: Avoiding tanning beds and other forms of UV radiation can reduce the risk of developing nonmelanoma skin cancer.
3. Regular Skin Exams: Regularly examining one's own skin for suspicious moles or patches can help detect nonmelanoma skin cancer early.

Diagnosis of Nonmelanoma skin cancer

Diagnosing nonmelanoma skin cancer typically involves a combination of physical examination and laboratory tests:

1. Physical Examination: A physical examination is performed to assess any signs of disease.
2. Biopsy: A biopsy is performed to remove a sample of tissue for further examination.
3. Imaging Studies: Imaging studies such as CT scans or MRI scans may be performed to assess tumor size and location.

Treatment for Nonmelanoma skin cancer

Treatment for nonmelanoma skin cancer typically involves surgery to remove the tumor:

1. Surgery: Surgery is usually performed to remove the tumor.
2. Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy may be used in some cases to kill remaining cancer cells.
3. Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy may be used in some cases to freeze and kill cancer cells.

When to seek medical attention ?

Individuals with suspected or diagnosed nonmelanoma skin cancer should see a doctor if they experience any symptoms or have concerns about their condition.