Skin Cancer Know Your ABCD's

By Wilfred R. Ehrmantraut, Jr., MD, PA

Plastic Surgery Center of Southern Maryland, P.A.

. http://www.plasticsurgeryofsomd.com

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Skin Cancer Know Your ABCD's

The incidence of skin cancer has dramatically increased over the past few years, and has become one of the most common cancers diagnosed today.

The skin gives us the ability to tan, which is our natural defense against non-melanoma skin cancers. Our ability to tan is genetically determined by the amount of melanin pigment produced by the skin cells in our bodies. This is why some people are more photosensitive (burn more easily) than others. We know that the susceptibility to skin tumors is inversely related to the amount of melanin in the skin and directly related to the number of lifetime sunburns. While out in the sun always wear at least a 15 to 20 SPF sun block and reapply it frequently.

Types of skin cancer include basal cell, squamous cell, and melanoma. Basal cell cancer is the most common type, affecting one in ten people. It locally invades the skin and may destroy surrounding tissue, but it does not usually metastasize or spread through out the body. Basal cell cancer is treated by surgical excision. Cryosurgery, electrosurgery and curettage can also be used.

Squamous cell cancer is very aggressive, locally invades the skin and may metastasize, or spread, through out the body. If not treated, it may cause death. Squamous cell cancer is treated with wide surgical excision with reconstruction, possible lymph node dissection and possible radiation therapy.

Melanoma is the most dangerous and aggressive skin cancer. It locally invades the skin and may metastasize, or spread, rapidly through out the body. It may cause death if not treated. Melanoma usually presents as a darkened, asymmetric lesion with irregular borders that has recently changed in size and/or color. Melanoma is treated with wide surgical excision, possible sentinel node biopsy and possible lymph node dissection.

Sun protection and self examination are the keys to preventing and detecting skin cancer. When doing self examinations remember the ABCD's. Look for skin lesions that are asymmetric (A) one half unlike the other; have irregular, scalloped or poorly defined borders (B); have varying colors (C) shades of tan, brown and/or black; and are at least 6mm in diameter (D). If you suspect you have a possible malignant lesion go to your doctor immediately. If they determine it is suspicious, they will most likely refer you to a dermatologist or general plastic surgeon for biopsy and removal of the lesion. The good news about skin cancer is that is 100% curable if caught and completely removed early.