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Skin Cancers

Melanoma

Melanoma, also referred to as malignant melanoma, is a potentially very serious skin cancer in which there is an uncontrolled growth of melanocytes (pigment cells).

 

Normal melanocytes are found in the basal layer of the epidermis (outer layer of skin).

 

Melanocytes produce a protein called melanin, which protects skin cells by absorbing ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

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Non-cancerous growth of melanocytes results in moles (benign melanocytic naevi) and freckles (ephelides and lentigines). In contrast, the cancerous growth of melanocytes results in melanoma.

 

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Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a common, locally invasive, keratinocyte cancer (also known as nonmelanoma cancer). It is the most common form of skin cancer. BCC is also known as rodent ulcer and basalioma. Patients with BCC often develop multiple primary tumours over time.​

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Read more about  Basal Cell Ca here

Skin cancer screening

Early detection of skin cancer gives you the greatest chance for successful skin cancer treatment.

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You can reduce your risk of skin cancer by limiting or avoiding exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Checking your skin for suspicious changes can help detect skin cancer at its earliest stages.

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  • Practice careful sun protection, including the regular application of sunscreens

  • Learn and practice self-skin examination

  • Have regular skin checks

  • Photographic surveillance

  • Undergo digital dermoscopic surveillance (mole mapping), especially if they have many moles or atypical moles 

  • Seek medical attention if they notice any changing or enlarging skin lesions

Squamous cell
Carcinoma

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common type of keratinocyte cancer, or non-melanoma skin cancer. It is derived from cells within the epidermis that make keratin — the horny protein that makes up skin, hair and nails.

Cutaneous SCC is an invasive disease, referring to cancer cells that have grown beyond the epidermis. SCC can sometimes metastasise and may prove fatal.

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Read more about Squamous Cell Ca here

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