In this post, we’re focusing on an essential topic that affects many individuals: skin cancer. We’ll cover detailed information on the two types of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)., as well as how to identify melanoma using the ABCDE screening tool.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of non-melanoma skin cancer. BCC typically occurs on sun-exposed areas such as the head, face, neck, and ears. It grows slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body. However, if left untreated, BCC can cause significant local damage and disfigurement.
Signs and Symptoms of Basal Cell Carcinoma
- Persistent, non-healing sore: This is a very common sign of early BCC. Look out for an open sore that bleeds, oozes, or crusts. It can remain open for a few weeks, heal, and then open up again.
- Pearly, shiny bump or nodule: This can be clear, pink, red, or white. The bump can also be tan, black, or brown, especially in darker skin types, and might be mistaken for a normal mole.
- Pink growth with a rolled border: A slightly elevated border with an indentation in the centre. Tiny blood vessels may develop on the surface as the growth enlarges.
- Patch of reddish irritated skin: often occurring on the face, chest, shoulders, arms, or legs. The patch may crust and could itch or persist without discomfort.
- White, Yellow, or Waxy Scar-Like Area: This area often has poorly defined borders and the skin appears taut. This could indicate an invasive BCC that might be larger than it appears on the surface.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of non-melanoma skin cancer. SCC typically appears on sun-exposed areas like the face, neck, ears, lips, and forearms. They can vary in size and shape, grow at different rates, and can become disfiguring or life-threatening if left untreated.
Signs and symptoms of squamous cell carcinoma
- Persistent, thick, rough, scaly patches: These can bleed if bumped, scratched, or scraped. They often look like warts and may have a raised border and crusted surface.
- Small, hard, white, or skin-coloured lumps: These lumps can appear on the skin.
- Persistent, scaly red patch with irregular borders: These patches can sometimes crust or bleed.
- Elevated Growth with a Central Depression: This type can occasionally bleed and may rapidly increase in size.
- Open Sores that Bleed and Crust: These sores can persist for weeks.
- Wart-Like Growth: This growth may crust and occasionally bleed.
The ABCDE of Melanoma Screening
Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that can spread to other parts of the body. Early detection is crucial, and the ABCDE screening tool is a helpful guide for identifying suspicious moles or skin lesions.
Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half.
Border: The borders of the mole are uneven, irregular, ragged, or have blurred, undefined edges.
Colour: The colour changes or varies throughout. Red, blue, and black colourations are particularly serious signs.
Diameter: The diameter is greater than 6 mm (but can be smaller).
Evolving: Changes in a new or existing mole over time are a significant indicator of melanoma.
Conclusion
Understanding the signs and symptoms of different types of skin cancer is crucial for early detection and treatment. If you notice any suspicious changes in your skin, please consult with a healthcare professional promptly. At Shamrock Clinic, your health and skin safety is our top priority and you will always be signposted to your health professional if you have a skin condition which we think should be medically treated.
For more information or to book an appointment, visit our website or call Shamrock Clinic today. Stay safe, stay healthy, and protect your skin!
