Humans and other life on Earth depend on the sun – for warmth, light and energy. But along with those benefits comes danger in the form of exposure of the skin to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can lead to skin cancers, among other skin problems. Here in Northern Arizona, we get a lot of UV exposure year-round because we are much closer to the sun. Without protection from UV radiation, our skin cells become damaged, which can multiply to form cancerous tumors in the skin.
The most common type of skin cancer is Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC). We usually find them on sun-exposed skin and they are often reddish and break open easily. They often grow slowly and are not painful; therefore, they can go unnoticed for a long time. The good news is that BCCs do not spread through the blood stream and can be cured by surgical removal from the skin.
Another common skin cancer found on sun-damaged skin is Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC). These are reddish, scaly bumps and sometimes grow very quickly. Most of the time, these are cured by completely removing them the same way as a BCC, but occasionally they can spread to the lymph nodes and other areas, especially when they are located on the head or neck.
Melanoma is a dangerous and potentially deadly form of skin cancer that has become more common partly due to people getting more sun exposure in general, but in particular, in young women due to use of tanning beds. Studies have shown that a single tanning session can increase a person’s risk of developing melanoma by 11 percent! Having a close relative with melanoma also increases a person’s risk. The earlier a melanoma is found and treated, the better the chance of cure. Signs to watch for are sudden changes in shape, color or diameter, or a new mole that is different than your other moles – an “ugly duckling.”
Dermatologists are trained to recognize, diagnose and treat skin cancers. A surgical skill unique to specially-trained dermatologists is called Mohs Surgery. We use this technique to remove many non-melanoma skin cancers on the face, ears and scalp and in other situations where there is little skin to spare, or if a tumor is large or growing aggressively. The tumor is surgically removed under local anesthesia, and the specimen is processed immediately so that the entire margin can be examined microscopically. If tumor is seen on the margin, another piece of skin is removed from the area corresponding to the involved margin. This process continues until the margin examined is free of tumor. By employing this precise method we can obtain the highest cure rate possible, and remove no more skin than is necessary, leaving a smaller wound to repair. The technique takes more time, but the results are worth it in the long run. FBN
By Dr. Cynthia Knutson, Northern Arizona Dermatology
(928) 774 – 5074.
Leave a Reply