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For people in their mid-thirties and older, skin cancer has become an increasing health danger. Aside from causing unwanted surgeries and skin excision, skin cancer can actually take lives. While the rate of fatality has decreased significantly over the past 20 years, it is still estimated that skin cancer causes the deaths of approximately 9,100 Americans each year.
Basal Cell and Squamous Cell Carcinoma
The two most common forms of skin cancer are basal and squamous cell carcinoma. These non-melanoma cancers are more common among caucasians, and are less deadly than their counterpart, simply because the cells are more superficial.
Basal cell carcinoma may appear as a fleshy bump or nodule on the skin. Untreated, it may bleed, crust over and repeat the cycle, but will rarely spread. Squamous cell carcinoma may appear as nodules or red, scaly patches; if left untreated, it can spread.
Both of these skin cancers develop as a result of long-term, repeated sun exposure. The sun’s UVB rays, which tan our skin, can cause abnormal cells to develop. Although tanning is nature’s way of providing the skin with a measure of protection against sunburn, it is in this pigmentation that basal and squamous cell carcinoma originate.
“Many people believe that if they get tan, but rarely burn, they won’t get skin cancer,” said Dr, Timothy Mattison, Dermatologist at MKMG. “This is simply not true. Even if they don’t burn, people who continue tanning are increasing their risk for non-melanoma skin cancer.”
Melanoma
Melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, affects approximately 40,000 Americans each year. An estimated 6,800 of these cases are fatal.
People who are fair-skinned and who sunburn easily are at higher risk for melanoma. Unlike the first two skin cancers, melanoma is highly correlated with sunburn. A long-term history of repeated sun exposure is not necessary; melanoma can develop after a single instance of sunburn.
Melanoma may spread and can grow deep into the tissue, making it more difficult to remove. It can also metastasize or spread throughout the body, making it potentially fatal, unlike basal and squamous cell cancers.
Early Detection and Screening
Despite their varying degrees of severity, all three types of skin cancer have more than a 95% cure rate with early detection.
“Thankfully, we can cure almost all cases of skin cancer, as long as we find them early,” said Dr. Mattison. “That is why it makes so much sense to check yourself, and to see your doctor regularly for screenings.”
Some patients who have had skin cancer before may see a dermatologist for annual screenings. However, for most patients, screenings by their primary care physician during regular physical examinations is sufficient. It is also essential for all patients to check their own skin for any warning signs (see the information box for guidelines).
“Patients typically visit a dermatologist after finding a suspicious spot on themselves,” Dr. Mattison explained. “But, we often find skin cancer in a lesion other than the one the patient identified. Once people have had skin cancer, they are better at spotting it later on.”
Treatments
While the most superficial skin cancers may be scraped off, most often, excision (or cutting away) of the damaged cells is required. In addition to the cancerous cells, a measure of healthy surrounding cells must also be removed to help ensure a total cure.
“Most often, skin cancer can be removed surgically right in the doctor’s office, with local anesthesia,” Dr. Mattison said.
Stitches may be required, and only the most severe cases require hospital out-patient surgery.
“Dermatologists take great care to remove the cancer effectively, while also being attentive to cosmetic concerns,” Dr. Mattison explained. “If the patient wishes to have cosmetic procedures after the excision, we can accommodate them as well.”
A Note on Tanning Salons and Products
What about tanning salons, which claim to be safer than going out in the sun for a tan?
“Dermatologists do not accept the safety of tanning salons,” said Dr. Mattison. “They still expose the skin to UVA rays, which we know can cause skin cancer.”
Tanning products that claim to enhance tanning while providing protection, either through minimal sunblock, moisturizers, or vitamins, are also ineffective at preventing skin cancer.
“All patients should use a sunblock of no less than 15 when going out in the sun,” Dr. Mattison said. “Those who still want to tan can do so wearing 15.”
Dr. Mattison practices with Dr. Ross Levy in MKMG’s Dermatology Department. If you suspect you might have skin cancer, and would like to see a dermatologist, contact your primary care physician, or call MKMG’s Dermatology Department at 242-1355. | 
