Summarize the characteristics of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and malignant melanoma.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma is a type of slow-growing skin cancer that is nonmalignant.
Characteristics
- An open sore that bleeds, oozes or crusts, and remains open for three or more weeks.
- A reddish patch or an irritated area, frequently occurring on the chest, shoulders, arms or legs that may itch or hurt.
- A smooth growth with a raised border and an indentation in the center. As the growth slowly enlarges, tiny blood vessels may develop on the surface.
- A shiny bump that is pearly or translucent and is often pink, red or white. The bump can also be tan, black or brown, especially in dark-haired people.
- A scar-like area (white, yellow, or waxy in appearance) which often has poorly defined borders. The skin itself appears shiny or taut. Although a less frequent sign, it can indicate the presence of an aggressive tumor.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
This is also a type of nonmalignant skin cancer.
Characteristics
- This is cancer of the epidermis (the top layer of skin)
- If the squamous cell carcinoma hasn't spread, the only visible symptom is the lesion.
- The lesion may look scaly or crusty and then become raised, reddened and wart-like.
- Squamous cell carcinoma of the mouth may look like a white patch or ulcerated area and a hornlike projection may grow from the lesion.
Malignant Melanoma
Malignant melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer.
Characteristics
- Melanomas can develop anywhere, but they are most commonly found on the back, arms, legs, and face.
- Common signs include a change in an existing mole or the development of a new pigmented or unusual-looking growth.
- Unusual moles can also develop melanoma. A good way to remember the symptoms of this is the acronym A-B-C-D-E:
- A is for asymmetrical shape. Look for moles with irregular shapes, such as two very different-looking halves.
- B is for irregular border. Look for moles with irregular, notched or scalloped borders — characteristics of melanomas.
- C is for changes in color. Look for growths that have many colors or an uneven distribution of color.
- D is for diameter. Look for new growth in a mole larger than 1/4 inch (about 6 millimeters).
- E is for evolving. Look for changes over time, such as a mole that grows in size or that changes color or shape. Moles may also evolve to develop new signs and symptoms, such as new itchiness or bleeding.
- Melanomas can also develop in hidden areas of the body or areas less exposed to the sun.
- Check out this link to see the stages of melonoma and survivor stories
Created by: Shannon Steffen