Skin cancer occurs when skin cells transform, multiply, and grow without control. As the cells multiply, they develop into a mass that is called a tumor. These tumors can be cancerous only if they are malignant, which refers to their ability to attack nearby tissues (particularly lymph nodes) due to their uncontrollable development. The prominent types of skin cancer are melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and, squamous cell carcinoma. The latter two are grouped together as non-melanoma skin cancers. In this article, the causes and symptoms of these types of skin cancer are explained.
Causes of basal cell carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma is a form of skin cancer that develops on the areas of the skin which are exposed to harsh sunlight over a prolonged period. The core causes of this type of skin cancer are exposure to a tanning bed or the harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun. When the skin is hit by the UV rays, its cells tend to get damaged as time progresses. Over a period, the harm caused to the cell’s DNA can result in the development of cancer. This damage may occur at any time between months to years.
Symptoms of basal cell carcinoma
In this condition, there may be noticeable skin growth in a dome form. This growth can be black, brown, or pink in color. In the initial stage, this disease begins with the development of a small, pearly bump. This bump appears like a flesh-colored pimple or mole that does not go away. In some cases, these developments are darker in color. There is a possibility slightly scales patches that are red or shiny pink may develop on the skin. Another symptom in this condition includes a hard, waxy skin growth. This type of skin cancer is fragile and hence, can lead to one bleeding easily. Any unusual bumps or marks on the skin should be immediately shown to a doctor.
Causes of squamous cell carcinoma
In most instances, this type of skin cancer occurs because of exposure to tanning beds or the harmful UV rays. The other causes behind the development of squamous cell carcinoma include:
- Sores or ulcers on the skin for a long time.
- A harmful skin burn.
- Certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV).
- Long-term exposure to chemicals that cause cancer; for instance, when an individual uses herbicides or insecticides, drinks from a water supply that has arsenic, or is exposed to tar while smoking tobacco.
Symptoms related to squamous cell carcinoma
The symptoms of this disease include:
- A lump or bump on the skin which feels rough to the touch.
- When the growth of the lump or bump increases, it can be crusty or dome-shaped, and may also probably bleed.
- A sore that heals and returns or one that never heals.
- Bowen’s disease, wherein a scaly, reddish, and flat patch develops gradually.
Do note that patients who have had an organ transplant are at an increased risk of developing one of these types of skin cancer. Any unusual growth on the skin should thus be shown to a doctor immediately.
