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Skin Cancer Overview

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Cancer and the Skin


Cancer overview

CancerCancer, a condition of abnormal cell growth, is the second most common cause of death in developed countries. Normal cell growth is a carefully regulated process. Cancer cells replicate in an uncontrolled manner, and can move from one part of the body to another.

For more information on cancer, see Cancer:Overview.

Anatomy of the skin

Anatomy of the skinHuman skin is considered to be the largest organ of the body. The surface area of the skin on an average adult is 1.8 m2, and represents 16% of the total body weight. The thickness of the skin varies throughout the body.

For more information, see Anatomy of the Skin

Types of skin cancer


Basal cell carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma of the skinBasal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer, accounting for more than 75% of all skin malignancies. Its incidence is greater with increasing age and it is almost twice as common in males. Geographically, the basal cell carcinoma tumour is found worldwide, but with striking geographical variation.

For more information, see Basal Cell Carcinoma of the Skin.

Squamous cell carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma of the skinSquamous cell carcinoma is the second most common form of skin cancer. It is more common in males and the ageing population.

For more information, see Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Skin.

Malignant skin melanoma

Malignant skin melanomaMelanomas are cancers of cells known as ‘melanocytes’ that are present in the skin. Sometimes, however, something can go wrong in a melanocyte. It becomes cancerous and grows very quickly, becoming bigger and bigger. The cancerous cells can eventually spread to other parts of the body where they can keep growing, causing damage to the surrounding structures.

For more information, see Malignant Skin Melanoma.


Tests for skin cancer


Skin biopsy

Skin biopsySkin biopsy is a simple procedure which is usually performed by a general practitioner. A sample of skin is removed so it can be sent to a laboratory for testing, for example to see if the skin is affected by skin cancer.

For more information, see Skin Biopsy.

Excision of a skin lesion

Excision of a skin lesionRemoving a skin lesion (a lump, bump or discolouration), such as a skin cancer, is one of the most common clinical procedures that can be done in a GP clinic. The removal of a lesion is often the first and best treatment for many conditions, especially skin cancers, because if done correctly it not only completely gets rid of the problem but can also stop it from regrowing

For more information, see Excision of a Skin Lesion.



Skin cancer prevention


Skin checks

Skin checksComing into the summer months, it is a good idea to have your skin checked for any suspicious lesions that may lead to skin cancer.

For more information, see Skin Checks.

Preventing Skin Cancer

male_doctor_mole_checking_skin_cancer_male_patient_100x100When it comes to preventing sun cancer it’s important to slip, slop and slap. But in a sunburnt country like Australia there’s a bit more too it. Find out all about how to enjoy the Australian sun without increasing your risk of skin cancer.

For more information, see Preventing Skin Cancer.

Protection against ultraviolet radiation

Protection against ultraviolet radiationUltraviolet (UV) radiation consists of high-energy rays which are invisible to the human eye, because they are outside of the colour spectrum which the human eye recognises (i.e. red, yellow, blue). Despite being invisible, UV rays can be very dangerous to the human body if over-exposure occurs. When UV rays come into contact with a human, they are absorbed by the cells of the skin.

For more information, see Preventing Cancer: Ultraviolet Radiation.

Video: Skin health

Video: Skin healthThe biggest organ in the body is skin. How do we keep it looking good, young and healthy? Dr Joe Kosterich talks about the functions of skin and how to look after your skin.

Watch the video Skin Health.


Patient experience


My experience: Larry gives us the skinny on skin cancer

Melanoma: Larry gives us the skinny on skin cancerLife is hectic and checking for melanoma might not be top of your priorities at the moment, but after reading Larry’s story, you might want to get your partner, a mate or a Mum to check out your birthday suit.

For more information see Melanoma: Larry gives us the skinny on skin cancer.

More information


Beauty

Beauty and health
For more information on how to stay healthy and beautiful, including information about nutrition, smoking and cosmetics, see Beauty and Health.

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Dates

Posted On: 20 December, 2010
Modified On: 30 March, 2017

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