Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is a type of cancer caused by the uncontrolled growth and proliferation of skin cells. Under normal conditions, skin cells grow, divide and die in a certain order. Some factors, especially unprotected and prolonged exposure to sunlight, can interfere with this pattern and skin cells may start to grow abnormally. Over time, these abnormal cells can become cancerous and spread to surrounding tissues.

Skin cancer can occur anywhere on the skin, but is more common in exposed areas that are usually exposed to sunlight. 

Early diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer can increase the chances of success and prevent complications. Therefore, it is important for people with symptoms of skin cancer to consult a doctor immediately.

 

Some forms of cancer exist and they can take place at any location in the body - skin is one of them. It is one of the most common types of cancer in the world, caused by ultraviolet (UV radiation), high sun exposure, etc.

Types of skin cancer are different from each other and depend on the situation of the patient. It is the same for the symptoms.

In this article, we will take a look at skin cancer and skin cancer treatment, risk factors, types of skin cancer, and more.

Causes of Skin Cancer

The causes of skin cancer are various, but the main reason is mostly being exposed to high ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Sun overexposure may also be a cause since being exposed to the constant sun is harmful to the skin.

Also, artificial light sources such as tanning beds are considered not suitable for the skin and can cause skin cancer since the UV is harmful.

Besides, having fair skin means that you’re sensitive to the sun or harmful UV light. You should be more careful since they cause skin damage easily.

Types of Skin Cancer

As mentioned previously, the types of skin cancer are different from each other but here are the most known three:

  • Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most known type of skin cancer and occurs in the epidermis - in the lowest layer of it. Lesions can be seen along with waxy bumps.
  • Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): Its the second most known type of skin cancer in the upper layer of the epidermis. The places that are affected by the SCC may be sensitive to touch and can be located in the neck, lips, hands, etc. Red nodules can be seen as well.
  • Melanoma: Melanoma is an aggressive form of skin cancer. Melanoma is responsible for producing the cells that give color to our skin, therefore dark lesions can be seen around the fingertips, palms, nose, etc.
Symptoms and Early Detection of Skin Cancer

Symptoms and early detection of skin cancer mean that you need to observe your skin regularly. Most of them are visible such as changes in the moles - they may change their shape and can be asymmetric. The colors can be changed along with the size growth. Some can become sensitive to touch.

You can consult a dermatologist when you realize any abnormal changes or skin changes.

Diagnosis and Staging of Skin Cancer

Diagnosis generally starts with a physical examination by the dermatologist. They can look at the affected areas such as moles, growths, etc. Some medical instruments can be used for further examination. A biopsy can be performed as well. After the biopsy and pathologic examination, the stage of skin cancer can be decided by the international-accepted system.

It is essential to stage the cancer so that the treatment can be decided and shaped.

Treatment Options for Skin Cancer

The treatment options for skin cancer depend on some factors such as the type, stage, age, gender, location and growth and size of cancer, etc. But generally, these options are used for treatment:

  • Surgery: Surgery can be considered the most chosen treatment option. The affected area can be removed by using sensitive medical instruments, and the surgery style is shaped according to the patient’s needs.
  • Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy is a method used to kill cancerous cells with the help of high-energy beams.

OUR DOCTORS

Date of birth 10.11.1987 Education and Expertise Karadeniz Technical University Faculty of Medicine Kocatepe University Ankara University Faculty of Medicine Konya Health Sciences University Professional Interests: Obesity (fatness) surgery and metabolic surgery Laparoscopic reflux surgery Laparoscopic gallbladder surgeries Gastric balloon application ERCP, EMR, ESD (Advanced Endoscopic procedures) Laparoscopic pancreatic cancer surgery Laparoscopic gastric and intestinal cancer surgeries Hemorrhoid surgeries Perianal fistula surgeries Laparoscopic abdominal and inguinal hernia surgeries Oncoplastic Breast cancer surgeries Natural cancer surgery (NOSE) Thyroid cancer and goiter surgeries. Memberships to Scientific Organizations Turkish Surgery Association Turkish Obesity Surgery Association Surgical Oncology Association National Society of Endoscopic Laparoscopic Surgery He is a member of the Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery Association. Courses and Certificates: Turkish surgical association proficiency exam (Board) certificate of achievement in 2018 He has more than 100 papers presented in national and international congresses and more than 50 articles published in international journals. Foreign language English
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