Common skin cancers: Early detection and treatment of basal cell and squamous cell cancers
Not all skin cancers are alike. Most start in the upper epidermis layer of the skin. In fact, just 1% are melanomas, the most deadly type of skin cancer. The vast majority of skin cancers are basal cell carcinomas or squamous cell carcinomas. All of these cancers can have a high rate of successful “cure,” but early detection and treatment are key. And that starts with a sound evaluation and accurate diagnosis by a qualified board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Huayi Zhang of Bluebonnet Dermatology of McKinney, Texas.
What is the most common type of skin cancer ?
Eighty percent of skin cancers are basal cell carcinomas or BCCs. These cancers originate in the lower part of the epidermis. The cells constantly divide to form new ones, replacing the squamous cells (SCs) that slough off on the skin’s surface. As the cells continue to move their way through this outermost layer, they flatten out and become SCs.
What is the next most common type ?
Squamous cell carcinomas, or SCCs, make up most of the rest of the skin cancer diagnoses, or about 20% of all cases. This prevalent form of skin cancer develops in the flat squamous cells that comprise the skin’s outer layer or the epidermis’s upper part. They are constantly being shed as new squamous cells form. Problems arise when these cells grow out of control, resulting in SCCs. Although usually not life-threatening, they can be aggressive. About 95% of SCCs are detected early when they are easiest to successfully “treat.” The balance 5% of cases can advance to the point where they are much more difficult and challenging to “cure.”
What do BCCs look like ?
BCCs are particularly common in heavily sun-exposed areas, such as the head and neck. They may look like shiny, flesh-colored bumps or brown, black, or blue lesions. Still, other BCCs may manifest as flat and scaly patches or white, waxy, and scar-like lesions with ill-defined borders.
What do SCCs look like ?
While SCCs can appear on any part of the body, they are particularly prevalent in areas with years of sun exposure – such as the ears, the back of the hands, and the lips. They can appear as firm nodules or bumps. Another telltale sign may be rough, crusty, and scaly sores that recur or never seem to heal. They can also arise from the most common type of pre-cancer, actinic keratosis. Often, AKs are easier to feel than see due to their rough texture that differs from the surrounding skin.
How do you treat these common cancers ?
Treatment depends on many factors, not limited to the location of the cancer, its “stage” or severity, and its size. As a specialty provider, Dr. Zhang has access to many different and advanced techniques and technologies to promptly and effectively manage these and other skin cancers. Treatment options may range from “freezing off” the cancer with cryosurgery to heating it with electrodessication (and curettage) to expert surgical excision or removal. If you notice any changes to your skin or are due for an examination, schedule your visit today. The office of Bluebonnet Dermatology in McKinney, TX, can be reached at (469) 663-5777.
