

Skin Cancer
What is skin cancer?
Cancers that originate in the cells of the skin are termed skin cancers. These tumours can have severe effects if untreated. These forms of skin cancer are brought on by ultraviolet (UV) light exposure and genetic alterations. The most prevalent types of skin cancers include:
1. Basal cell carcinoma
The most typical kind of skin cancer is basal cell carcinoma (BCC). The basal cells, located in the epidermis's deepest layer, are the site of this slow-growing malignancy. BCC frequently manifests as a little, fleshy bump or patch on the skin that is typically pearly or waxy. It can also mimic a sore that does not heal and can appear flat, scaly, and slightly red. BCC can be found anywhere on the body. However, it tends to appear more frequently on the hands, neck, and face.2. Squamous cell carcinoma
Skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) develops in the squamous cells in the top layer of skin (the epidermis). SCC might manifest as an open sore, scaly area, or hard red bump on the skin. It can also take the form of a slightly elevated, scaly, rough open sore that bleeds. SCC can occur everywhere on the body, although it is most frequently found on skin exposed to the sun.3. Melanoma
Skin cancer that starts in the skin's pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) is called melanoma. Melanoma is frequently regarded as the deadliest type of skin cancer due to how quickly it can spread to other body parts if it is not found and treated in its early stages. Melanoma often manifests as a mole or new growth on the skin that is black and has an uneven form. It might be dark or light, like skin tone, pink, red, purple, blue, or white. The mole may also have an irregular colour and unevenly shaped border.
What causes skin cancer?
UV light exposure from the sun, tanning beds, and other sources is the leading cause of skin cancer. Additionally, the following factors can raise your risk of getting skin cancer:
Age - the risk of skin cancer increases as people age.
Exposure to chemicals - certain chemicals, such as arsenic or petroleum products, can increase the risk of skin cancer.
Genetics - specific inherited genetic mutations can increase the risk of developing skin cancer.
Skin type - fair-skinned individuals are at a higher risk of skin cancer than those with darker skin.
Sunburn history - repeated sunburns, especially in childhood, can increase the risk of skin cancer.
It is critical to use sun protection on your skin, and you should consult a doctor if you see any worrisome moles or skin changes. Early detection and treatment can increase the likelihood of a positive outcome.
Skin cancer symptoms
Skin cancer, or skin cancer, can present in numerous ways. Common symptoms include:
A growth or bump that is firm, pearly, or waxy may be ulcerated or bleed.
A rough, scaly patch of skin that may be red or discoloured.
A spot or sore that is dark, itchy, or crusty.
A wound that bleeds easily or does not heal.
Changes in the appearance of a mole, such as an increase in size, change in colour, or irregular shape.
The development of a new, unusual-looking mole
Skin cancer treatments
The kind, location, and stage of skin cancer affect how it is treated. The following are typical skin cancer treatments:
Chemotherapy - Cancer cells are killed, and tumours are shrunk by medication. This treatment is frequently employed when skin cancer is more advanced or has migrated to other body parts.
Immunotherapy consists of medications that support the body's immune system in combating cancer
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) - a procedure that destroys cancer cells by utilising light and a photosensitising drug.
Radiation therapy - Tumours are shrunk, and cancer cells are destroyed with high-energy radiation. For some kinds of skin cancer, this treatment modality can be used independently and in conjunction with surgery.
Surgery - The most frequent treatment for skin cancer is the surgical excision of the malignant tumour. The surgery can be performed using local anaesthesia with a simple excision or a more involved procedure like a skin graft.
The precise type and stage of cancer, the patient's general health and personal preferences, and Dr Motilall's recommendations will influence the treatment option. A mix of treatments can occasionally produce the best results.