Overview
Nonmelanoma skin cancer refers to types of skin cancer that are not melanoma. The most common types of nonmelanoma skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Treatment usually involves surgery to remove the cancer cells. Nonmelanoma skin cancer is often caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight or tanning beds. Protecting the skin from UV light can help reduce the risk of developing this type of skin cancer.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
Nonmelanoma skin cancer includes basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Symptoms of squamous cell carcinoma of the skin include a firm bump on the skin (nodule), a flat sore with a scaly crust, or a wart-like growth. These can occur anywhere on the skin, including sun-exposed areas, but in people with Black and brown skin, they are more likely to be found on skin that isn't exposed to sun. The symptoms of basal cell carcinoma may include a skin-colored or pearly bump, a sore that doesn't heal, or a bleeding or scabbing area. It's essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for developing nonmelanoma skin cancer include a history of skin cancer, a weakened immune system, having a rare genetic disorder like xeroderma pigmentosum, having human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, having scars or long-lasting wounds on the skin, and being in the sun too much. Other factors that may contribute to the risk include having skin that sunburns easily, using tanning beds, and having a history of sunburns or precancerous skin lesions. It is important to protect the skin from UV radiation and consult a healthcare professional for any concerns about skin cancer.
Development
Nonmelanoma skin cancer develops when skin cells grow abnormally and uncontrollably, forming a tumor. The most common types of nonmelanoma skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Basal cell carcinoma develops in the basal cells, which are located in the lower part of the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. These cells help to repair and rebuild the skin when it is damaged. When basal cells become cancerous, they can invade and destroy healthy tissue, but they do not typically metastasize (spread to other parts of the body). Squamous cell carcinoma, on the other hand, begins in the squamous cells, which are found in the middle and outer layers of the skin. These cells also play a role in repairing and rebuilding the skin. Squamous cell carcinoma is usually not life-threatening if detected and treated early, but it can grow large or spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. In both cases, ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight, tanning lamps, or tanning beds is the primary cause of nonmelanoma skin cancer. However, other factors might also contribute to the risk, such as having a condition that weakens the immune system or a history of skin cancer.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
If you suspect nonmelanoma skin cancer, it's important to see a doctor for proper evaluation and treatment. You should consult a doctor if you notice any changes in existing moles, freckles, bumps, or birthmarks, such as changes in size, shape, or color. Additionally, if you have new skin growths or unexplained symptoms, it's advisable to seek medical advice. Early detection and treatment of skin cancer significantly improve the chances of successful treatment and recovery.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Potential complications of nonmelanoma skin cancer include a risk of recurrence, an increased risk of other types of skin cancer, and, in rare cases, the cancer spreading beyond the skin to nearby lymph nodes or other areas of the body. Un
Prevention
nonmelanoma skin cancer can be prevented to a certain extent by following some precautionary measures. Here are some tips to help prevent nonmelanoma skin cancer:
- Stay out of the sun during peak hours: Limit your time in the sun, especially during the middle of the day when the sun's rays are strongest. Use shade and wear protective clothing to cover your arms and legs.
- Wear sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, even on cloudy days. Apply sunscreen generously and reapply every two hours or more often if you're swimming or sweating.
- Wear protective clothing: Wear dark, tightly woven clothes that cover your arms and legs and a wide-brimmed hat that shades your face and ears. Don't forget to wear sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB radiation.
- Avoid tanning beds: Tanning beds emit UV radiation, which increases the risk of skin cancer. Therefore, it's best to avoid tanning beds altogether.
- Be aware of risk factors: Know your risk factors, such as having skin that sunburns easily, a history of skin cancer, a weakened immune system, a rare genetic disorder, or HPV infection. If you have any of these risk factors, take extra precautions to protect your skin. By following these preventive measures, you can reduce your risk of developing nonmelanoma skin cancer. Remember, it's crucial to be proactive in protecting your skin and to check for any unusual changes in your skin, as early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
Treatment
Nonmelanoma skin cancer treatments typically involve surgery to remove the cancer cells. The specific treatment approach depends on the type of skin cancer. For basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, common treatment options include:
- Surgical excision: The cancerous tissue is surgically removed along with some surrounding healthy tissue. This is the most common treatment for nonmelanoma skin cancers.
- Mohs surgery: This is a precise surgical technique used for removing skin cancer, especially when the cancer is in a difficult-to-treat location or has recurred after previous treatment.
- Curettage and desiccation (CD): The cancerous tissue is scraped out with a curette (a sharp instrument) and then heated with an electric needle or diathermy to control bleeding and destroy any remaining cancer cells.
- Cryotherapy: Liquid nitrogen is used to freeze and destroy the cancerous tissue.
- Topical medications: For some superficial skin cancers, topical medications containing imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) may be applied to the skin to stimulate the immune system to fight the cancer cells. It is important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.