Types of Skin
Cancer
Know The Differences Between
The Main Types of Skin Cancer
When it comes to skin cancer,
these are the main diagnosable types -- each with
different symptoms, treatments and mortality rates. If you
think there is any chance you may have skin cancer, do not try
to self-diagnose! If you think you have cancer, see a
doctor.
It is important to always
consult a licensed health professional before seeking
treatment for skin
cancer.
The most common form of skin
cancer is basal cell carcinoma, a slow-forming
cancer with no risk of spreading to other body parts. As it is
a relatively inert form of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma
has lower mortality rates than other cancers and is easiest to
remove.
The second type of skin
cancer, one that is more serious than basal cell carcinoma, is
squamous cell carcinoma. This slow-growing
cancer is not as inert as basal cell carcinoma, meaning that,
if left untreated, it can spread to other parts of the body.
Yet, though there are risks involved, squamous cell carcinoma
is one of the easier skin cancers to treat, often requiring a
simple removal via liquid nitrogen blast or hot knife incision.
Though, in some cases, larger or more invasive attacks by this
type of skin cancer may require more serious surgical
procedures.
The third, and most dangerous, of the skin
cancers is malignant melanoma. This highly
fatal skin cancer is known for its fast growth and ability to
spread throughout the entire body. If left untreated, malignant
melanoma is the deadliest of the skin cancers, thus it is
important that it is diagnosed and treated very quickly. Those
who suffer from malignant melanoma often require surgery, as it
is imperative that the cancer be removed from the body before
it has time to grow and affect other organs. If left untreated,
this most deadly skin cancer will spread throughout the body,
attacking other organs, transforming into other forms of skin
cancer and other lymphomas. - Article by
Adam Hefner
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