from the Summer 1999 issue
There are three forms of skin cancer, and learning what to look for can save your life.
Basal cell cancers usually appear as small, fleshy bumps (tumors) on the head, neck and hands. They seldom occur in dark-skinned people, but they are the most common skin cancers found in Caucasians. These tumors do not spread quickly. It may take many months or years for one to reach one-half inch in diameter. Untreated, the cancer lesions will begin to bleed, crust over, then repeat the cycle.
Squamous cell cancers appear as nodules or as red, scaly patches. They typically are on the rims of the ears, the face, lips and mouth. These cancers will develop into large masses. Unlike basal cell cancer, squamous cell cancers can spread internally and grow quickly. A squamous cell cancer can reach one inch in diameter in a few weeks or months.
Malignant melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer but is almost always curable in its early stages. Melanoma begins in skin cells that produce dark protective pigment, which is why this cancer appears in shades of tan, brown and black. It can spread quickly, so early diagnosis and treatment are essential. Melanoma may suddenly appear without warning or begin in or near a mole. Changes in moles may signal melanoma, so it is important that you know what your moles look like. Dark skin is not a guarantee against melanoma.
Watch carefully for other warning signs of melanoma: changes in the surface of a mole; scaliness, oozing or bleeding; the appearance of a bump; spreading of pigment from the border into surrounding skin; change in sensation, including itchiness, tenderness or pain.
For more information, see:
Preventing Skin Cancer
Spring 2005
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