Baton Rouge Clinic Health Library

Skin Cancer

     Published: 07, 2004

Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers, with an estimated one million new cases every year. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer, and occurs most frequently on sun-exposed skin. Melanoma, although less common, is responsible for more than 80% of the deaths resulting from skin cancer. It is estimated that one in every six individuals will be affected by a melanoma at some point during their lifetime.

The best treatment for skin cancer is removal. Early identification and early excision are the most powerful weapons we have in treating skin cancer.

Who gets skin cancer?

Skin cancer may affect anyone at any age. However, skin cancer is more prevalent in people who have fair skin, light hair, and/or light eyes or in people who have a family history of skin cancer. In addition, people with a history of chronic ultraviolet light exposure from either the sun or tanning beds and people with a history of severe sunburns are at a higher risk to develop skin cancer. Other factors include scars, exposure to radiation, chronic inflammatory conditions and immunosuppression.

How will I know if I have skin cancer?

Evaluation and inspection. First, an examination by your dermatologist will allow identification of any suspicious skin lesions. Any atypical skin lesions will either be noted for observation or sampled at the time of your clinic visit. In addition, your dermatologist will educate you to make you aware of any signs and symptoms of skin cancer. Your dermatologist can alert you to any suspicious lesions and assess your level of sun damage.

Second, and most importantly, is self-inspection. Inspect your entire body regularly for any skin changes and new lesions. Have a partner inspect your back once a month so that any lesions that appear out of your visual range will be discovered early.

How often should a dermatologist examine me?

Every patient has a plan individualized to his or her own personal needs. In general, yearly skin examinations by your dermatologist are recommended. People with a history of skin cancer or with a family history of skin cancer are often seen more frequently. Monthly self-examinations are recommended to all patients.

What does a melanoma look like?

Unfortunately, melanomas can look like anything. The most common look of melanoma is a pigmented area that appears to be abnormal in size, shape, and color. Many people describe melanomas as a “changing mole” or a “dark mole.” Other signs and symptoms of melanomas include itching, bleeding, or ulceration. Normal moles are usually symmetrical, round-to-oval, and with a consistent tan or brown color. Melanomas have an irregular shape, are asymmetric and are usually multi-colored. An easy way to remember the most common characteristics of melanomas is to remember the A-BC-D rule.

1. Asymmetry. Melanomas are usually asymmetric.
2. Border. Melanomas usually have an irregular border
3. Color. Melanomas are usually two or more colors (i.e. brown, black, white)
4. Diameter. Most melanomas are greater than 6 mm in diameter.

How can I protect myself and my children from developing skin cancer?

Because chronic sun exposure and severe sunburns are a leading cause of skin cancer, sun protection is an effective preventative measure to help reduce the risk of developing skin cancer. Limit skin exposure to the harmful ultraviolet rays by wearing sunglasses, broad-brimmed hats and protective clothing. Furthermore, use a broad-spectrum, waterproof sunscreen, rated SPF-15 or higher, on all exposed skin. Reapply sunscreen frequently. Also, avoid any artificial tanning devices.

Remember, prevention and early intervention are most important in the prevention and treatment of skin cancer.

Note: not all of the above characteristics are found in every melanoma. In general, however, these appear to be the most common findings among these lesions.

The Baton Rouge Clinic, AMC, offers this information as a courtesy service. Please remember that medical knowledge is always evolving and we cannot represent that any of our information is absolutely current. Please consult a physician before taking any medical action based on information gathered from this or any website.