What are the symptoms of skin cancer, all its stages, and the fastest treatment methods

We all know that exposure to sunlight provides the body with vitamin D, which contributes to calcium absorption and promotes bone health. However, exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays without using sunscreen can cause damage to the skin, such as the breakdown of collagen and elastin cells, or the occurrence of hyperpigmentation and sunspots (photodamage), which leads to the appearance of wrinkles early. In addition, harmful rays may increase the risk of skin cancer. In this article, we will discuss this topic in detail through the Dalili Medical website, where we will review what skin cancer is and how you can protect yourself and your family from it. Here are the following details.

 

What is skin cancer?

 

Skin cancer is an abnormal growth and proliferation of skin cells, especially in areas exposed to sunlight. This type of cancer can arise from cells of the outer layer of the skin, from melanocytes, or from other types of skin cells. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. It is important to note that skin cancer is not contagious, and it cannot be transmitted by touch or any other means.

 

Risk factors for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma of the skin:

 

- Prolonged exposure to sunlight.

 

- Fair skin, which includes:

 

- Skin that cracks and burns easily, and does not tan or tans poorly.

 

- Light-colored eyes such as blue or green.

 

- Red or blond hair.

 

Although fair skin is a risk factor for skin cancer, all skin types are at risk for this disease.

 

- A history of sunburn.

 

- A family or personal history of skin cancer.

 

- Certain changes in genes or genetic syndromes associated with skin cancer.

 

- Chronic dermatitis.

 

- A weakened immune system.

 

- Previous radiation therapy.

 

- Aging.

 

- Using nail dryers that emit ultraviolet rays.

 

Is skin cancer a fatal disease?

 

Many people wonder if skin cancer can lead to death. The answer is that despite the high incidence of skin cancer, early detection makes it easier to treat. Consequently, the incidence and mortality rates have decreased significantly.

 

With proper treatment, the cure rate for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma is about 95%.

 

How does skin cancer start?

 

The most common form of skin cancer in its early stages is a change in the skin, which often appears as a new growth or a change in an existing mole. Symptoms of skin cancer include the appearance of a new mole, a change in the size, shape or color of an existing mole, or even bleeding.

 

What are the signs and symptoms of skin cancer?

 

The most common symptoms of skin cancer include:

 

- A new growth or mole on the skin: This may appear as a bump or area of ​​skin that changes in color, is raised or rough.

 

- Changes in an existing mole: These changes can include changes in color, shape, size or texture.

 

- Itching, bleeding or crusting: Any mole or growth that itches, bleeds or crusts should be evaluated by a health care professional.

 

- Scaly or red patches: Scaly, red, or irritated patches on the skin may indicate skin cancer.

 

It is important to note that not all skin cancers have symptoms, and some may only be detected through routine skin exams. Regular checkups can help detect skin cancer early, increasing the chances of effective treatment.

 

**What are the stages of skin cancer?**

 

Skin cancer stages are usually determined based on the size and depth of the cancer cells, as well as whether the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes or other organs, and the patient’s overall health. Skin cancer stages include:

 

- **Stage 0:** Also known as melanoma in situ, the cancer cells are only in the top layer of the skin and have not yet spread.

 

- **Stage I:** At this stage, the cancer is still confined to the skin and has not spread to nearby lymph nodes or other organs.

 

- **Stage II:** Here, the cancer has grown deeper into the skin and may have spread to nearby lymph nodes, but it has not reached other organs.

 

- **Stage III:** At this stage, the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes and may also extend to nearby tissues.

 

- **Stage IV:** This is the most advanced stage, where the cancer has spread to distant organs such as the lungs or liver.

 

It is important to note that not all skin cancers follow the same classification system. For example, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are usually staged based on their size and location, rather than how far they have spread. Our skin cancer specialists can help you determine the stage of your skin cancer by taking into account a variety of factors, such as medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests.

 

What are the types of skin cancer?

 

. **Non-melanoma skin cancer**: This type includes tumors that form in basal cells and squamous cells, which are two types of cells found in the outer layer of the skin.

 

. **Melanoma**: This type of skin cancer occurs only in melanocytes, which are specialized cells that control skin color by producing melanin.

 

**Basal cell carcinoma**: Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of non-melanoma skin cancers. It most often occurs in people over age 50, but it can also affect younger people, especially those whoThey are frequently exposed to harmful sunlight.

 

Symptoms of basal cell carcinoma include a skin lesion that appears in one of the following forms:

 

- Small, pearly, shiny, translucent bumps that are pink or red in color and may have blue, brown, or black areas.

 

- Pink growths with raised edges and a depressed central area.

 

- Flat, firm areas that are light or yellow in color, similar to scars.

 

- Raised red patches that may be itchy.

 

- Open sores that do not heal, or heal and then reappear, and may be fluid-filled or covered with crusts.

 

Basal cell carcinoma appears in various areas of the body, but it is most common in the head, neck, and arms. It rarely spreads beyond the site of the original tumor, but in cases of delayed treatment, it may expand within a limited area, which increases the severity of the disease and its ability to destroy skin, tissue, and bone.

 

**Squamous cell carcinoma**Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of cancer that develops in squamous cells, one of the main types of cells found in the top layer of the skin (epidermis). It is the second most common type of skin cancer.

 

Squamous cell carcinoma occurs mainly in areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, neck, lips, and hands, as well as other areas of the body. In some cases, it may appear in the genital area, but it is less common in these areas than in other parts of the body.

 

Symptoms of this type of cancer can appear in many forms, including:

 

- Rough red spots.

 

- Raised growths or lumps, where the center of these lumps may sometimes be depressed.

 

- Open sores that do not heal, or may heal and then reappear, and are often fluid-filled or covered with crusts.

 

- Wart-like growths, which are small, rough bumps.

 

If squamous cell carcinoma is not treated quickly enough, it can spread quickly and become more dangerous, invading other parts of the body.

 

**Melanoma** Although melanoma is less common than other types of skin cancer, it is considered more dangerous because it can spread easily to different parts of the body.

 

There are four main types of melanoma, which are as follows:

 

**Superficial spreading melanoma**Superficial spreading melanoma is the most common type of melanoma. This type affects men and women in almost equal proportions, however, only 15% of cases appear before the age of forty, while it is very rare in individuals under the age of twenty (less than 1%).

 

Superficial spreading melanoma is most common in females on the legs, while it is more common in males on the trunk. Symptoms of this tumor appear in the following forms:

 

- A flat spot with a discolored and irregular shape.

 

- A lesion with an irregular shape.

 

- A growth that changes in size, shape, or color.

 

**Nodular melanoma**Nodular melanoma is the most aggressive of all melanomas, as it can invade the skin and grow and spread quickly. This type accounts for more than 10% of all melanoma cases, and it is more common in males than females. Symptoms of this type usually appear on the head and neck area, and include:

 

- A round, raised lump.

 

- A painful bump that bleeds.

 

- A mushroom-like growth with a smooth or rough surface and is larger than 6 millimeters in diameter.

 

**Lentigo maligna melanoma**Lentigo maligna melanoma is closely linked to sun exposure, making it common among workers who are exposed to sunlight for long periods and older people (60 to 80 years old).

 

This tumor spreads to areas of skin damaged by the sun, such as the face, ears, arms, and trunk. Symptoms of this type appear as:

 

- Flat, freckle-like spots that continue to grow and change shape over time.

 

- Painful ulcers that may bleed.

 

**Acral lentiginous melanoma** Acral lentiginous melanoma grows very slowly, and it may take several months before it spreads to other parts of the body. This type of melanoma is most common among people with dark skin.

 

This type of cancer can be seen on the palms, soles, and under the nails, and symptoms appear as:

 

- **Dark spots**: These are spots that are noticeably darker in color than the surrounding normal skin color.

 

- **A lesion with an irregular surface**: This lesion is characterized by an uneven surface, similar in its composition to warts.

 

- **A lesion that causes bleeding**: This lesion appears to bleed easily when exposed to touch or friction.

 

Rare skin cancers** In addition to the common types of skin cancer, there are some rare types, the most prominent of which are:

 

- **Merkel cell carcinoma**: Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare type of skin cancer that originates from Merkel cells located in the upper layer of the skin. This type spreads in different areas of the body, especially those exposed to direct sunlight such as the head, neck, and legs. It is characterized by its rapid development and ability to spread to other parts of the body such as the lymph nodes, lungs, liver, or bones. The tumor appears as painless lumps that are reddish-blue in color, and are about 2 cm wide.

 

Sebaceous gland cancer: This type begins in the sebaceous glands (glands that produce natural oils for the skin) that are spread throughout the body, so sebaceous gland cancer can be diagnosed throughout the body, and the upper eyelid of the eye is the most affected site with this type of cancer, as approximately 75 out of every 100 cases of this cancer have been diagnosed around the eye area. Sebaceous gland cancer appears as a solid, painless, yellow lump in different areas of the body.The head and neck, and the genital areas, and it is characterized by its ability to spread to other parts such as the lymph nodes, lungs, liver, and bones.

 

Kaposi's sarcoma**: Kaposi's sarcoma is a rare type of skin cancer that begins in the cells that line the lymph nodes and blood vessels in the skin. This type is linked to HIV.

 

Tests to determine whether cancer cells have spread within the skin or to other parts of the body:

Basal cell carcinoma of the skin rarely spreads to other parts of the body. Staging tests are usually not needed to determine whether basal cell carcinoma of the skin has spread.

 

The following tests and procedures may be used to stage squamous cell carcinoma of the skin:

 

• Computed tomography (CAT scan): This scan takes a series of detailed pictures of the skin, such as the head and neck, from different angles. A dye may be injected into a vein or swallowed to help the tissues show up more clearly.

 

• Chest X-ray: X-ray of the organs and bones inside the chest

 

• PET scan: A procedure to find malignant cancer cells in the body by injecting a small amount of radioactive glucose into a vein. Malignant cancer cells show up brighter on the image because they are more active and take up more glucose than normal cells.

 

• Ultrasound scan: High-energy sound waves (ultrasound) bounce off internal tissues, such as lymph nodes or organs, and create an echo, creating a picture of the body’s tissues. The image can be printed for later viewing. Ultrasound scans of the lymph nodes are done.

 

• Eye exam after dilation: An eye exam in which the pupil is dilated with medicated eye drops to allow the doctor to look through the lens and pupil at the retina and optic nerve. The inside of the eye, including the retina and optic nerve, is examined with light.

 

• Lymph node biopsy: Removal of all or part of a lymph node to examine the lymph node tissue under a microscope to check for cancer cells. A lymph node biopsy can be done for squamous cell skin cancer.

 

• A simple blood test to detect the spread of skin cancer: The name of the skin cancer test is TFP12 and it examines chemical changes in a gene called TFP12 to identify patients whose skin cancer has started to spread to other parts of the body.

 

The test examines DNA leaking from cancer cells into the bloodstream and looks for chemical changes in the TFP12 gene, which normally plays an anti-cancer role by preventing healthy skin cells from growing out of control.

 

How does the sun affect skin health?

 

There are two types of harmful rays that reach us from the sun: ultraviolet rays (UVA) and (UVB). Both can cause skin damage, but each affects it in different ways:

 

**UVA rays**: penetrates deeply into the skin, destroying collagen and elastin, which are the elements responsible for the elasticity and freshness of the skin. This contributes to accelerating the aging process and increasing the risk of developing various types of skin cancer.

 

**UVB rays**: Also known as tanning rays, they affect the outer layer of the skin, causing skin burns and pigmentation. They also cause damage to DNA within cells, which increases the risk of cancer over time.

 

The sources of harmful rays are not limited to the sun only, even tanning devices are considered a dangerous source, as they expose a person to high doses of ultraviolet rays. Studies have shown that individuals who use tanning devices regularly are more susceptible to skin cancer.

 

**How ​​is skin cancer diagnosed?**

 

To confirm skin cancer, the doctor follows the following steps:

 

. **Clinical examination:** The doctor examines the skin for any abnormal changes that may raise suspicion.

 

. **Taking a skin sample:** If there is a suspicion that the patient has skin cancer, the doctor takes a sample from the affected area and sends it to a specialized laboratory for examination under a microscope. This examination helps determine whether there are cancerous cells, and if the diagnosis is confirmed, it determines the type of skin cancer present.

 

If the patient has skin cancer resulting from changes in the superficial cells such as basal cells, the biopsy result is sufficient to determine the type of cancer. In the case of advanced squamous cell carcinoma or Merkel cell carcinoma, the doctor may need to perform additional tests, such as various imaging techniques to examine the nearby lymph nodes, or take a sample from them if necessary to determine the extent of the tumor spread.

 

**Skin Cancer Treatment Methods**

 

1. **Curettage and Electrodesiccation**This treatment method is based on the use of a small device equipped with a loop, through which the doctor scrapes and scrapes the tumor. After that, a chemical or thermal technique is used to eliminate the remaining cancer cells, which helps prevent bleeding and promote wound healing.

 

The doctor may need to repeat these steps several times during the session to ensure that the tumor is completely removed.

 

The success rate of this method is about 95%, and it is suitable for most cases of basal skin cancer. This method usually leaves a small white scar similar to the effects of cigarette burns.

 

As for squamous cell skin cancer, we use this method in:

 

- Simple squamous cell skin cancer cases that are limited to the outer layer of the skin.

 

- Squamous cell skin cancer cases that have begun to penetrate into the middle layer of the skin, but do not show alarming invasive characteristics.

 

**. Mohs Surgery**Mohs surgery is an effective method for treating basal and squamous cell skin cancer, as it allows the complete removal of the tumor with minimal removal of surrounding tissue, andIts success rate reaches about 99% in cases of cancer that are discovered for the first time.

 

This method is suitable for tumors located in sensitive areas such as around the eyes, nose, lips, ears, scalp, fingers and toes, as well as the genitals.

 

This surgery is also used to treat advanced basal cell tumors and rapidly spreading tumors.

 

The idea of ​​this surgery is to remove the visible part of the tumor with a small amount of surrounding tissue, then this sample is examined under a microscope at the same time and place of the surgery, until we reach a layer of skin free of cancer cells. This method aims to remove as much of the tumor as possible while minimizing damage to the surrounding tissues.

 

This surgery is often performed under local anesthesia in outpatient clinics.

 

. Excisional surgery** The doctor uses a scalpel to completely remove the tumor, while removing a portion of the surrounding healthy tissue to ensure safety. This tissue is sent to a specialized laboratory to conduct the necessary tests to ensure that there are no cancer cells. If they are found, the patient may need to undergo additional surgery.

 

This method is suitable for small tumors that are detected in the early stages before they spread, and achieves satisfactory results of about 95%.

 

**. Radiotherapy ** The use of low-energy X-rays can significantly destroy cancer cells, making it a suitable option without the need for surgery or anesthesia and the resulting complications.

 

Completing the treatment may require several sessions over separate visits, or daily sessions for a specific period.

 

This method is suitable for cases that are not suitable for surgery, such as the elderly or patients with complex health problems.

 

The success rate of this method is about 90%, which is less than the success rate of surgery, and we cannot confirm the complete elimination of the tumor or all cancer cells.

 

Radiotherapy can also be used after initial surgery to remove a large part of the tumor, either alone or in cooperation with other treatment protocols, in cases of advanced cancer, especially those close to vital organs or nerves.

 

**. Cryotherapy**Cryotherapy requires the use of liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy the tumor, which results in the formation of a crust that later falls off, giving healthy skin a chance to grow and regenerate.

 

This method is suitable for small and superficial skin tumors, especially in patients with anesthesia problems or blood disorders, as its success rate ranges between 85% and 90%.

 

However, this method cannot be applied to deep tumors, because it does not reach the inner layers. In addition, the formation of scars at the tumor site may make it difficult to detect if it reappears.

 

**Phototherapy**The specialist doctor applies a topical substance that makes the wound more sensitive to light, or the tumor can be injected with this substance directly. After a period of time that allows the substance to be absorbed, the doctor uses blue light (or sometimes sunlight in carefully calculated doses) to destroy the tumor.

 

The patient should avoid exposure to sunlight for at least two days, as exposure to the sun may increase the drug's reaction and lead to severe burns.

 

This method is suitable for superficial tumors on the face and scalp, but it is not effective for deeper types.

 

### . Topical treatments **There are several topical medications that are approved by the FDA to treat basal skin cancer, but they are not yet approved for the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma.

 

Among these medications, Fluorouracil (also known as 5FU), which is used to treat some types of tumors in general, can be used as a topical treatment for superficial skin cancers. Imiquimod is another option, as it works to stimulate the immune system to attack cancer cells.

 

Are there side effects to skin cancer treatment?

 

**Side effects of skin cancer treatment: Surgery** Surgery is often a long and complex procedure. Although serious short-term side effects are not common, they can include reactions to anesthesia, excessive bleeding, blood clots, and infections. It is common to feel pain after the procedure, and the patient may need strong painkillers for a period of time until the treated area heals.

 

The specific side effects that the patient may experience depend on the type of surgery performed, the extent of the procedure, as well as other factors such as the patient’s general health and medical history.

 

Some common side effects of skin cancer surgery include:

 

- **Pain and discomfort**: Patients may feel pain and discomfort in the area that underwent surgery, and this can usually be controlled with painkillers prescribed by the doctor.

 

- **Swelling**: Swelling may occur in the area where the procedure was performed, and this is usually temporary and goes away on its own.

 

- **Scarring**: Surgery may result in scarring, which may be somewhat noticeable depending on the location of the surgery and the extent of the procedure.

 

- **Bleeding and bruising**: Patients may experience some bleeding and bruising after surgery.

 

**Side effects of skin cancer treatment: Radiation therapy** Radiation therapy is a common treatment option for skin cancer, but it can have some side effects that vary depending on the type and location of the cancer, as well as the dose and duration of treatment. Possible side effects of radiation therapy for skin cancer include:

 

- **Skin changes**: Radiation may cause changes in the skin in the treated area, such as redness, itching, dryness, blistering, and peeling. The skin color may also change to become darker or lighter.

 

- **Fatigue**: Patients may feel tired or fatigued as a result of radiation therapy, which can range from mild to severe.

This is due to the energy the body needs to heal damaged tissues.

 

- **Hair loss**: Radiation therapy may cause temporary hair loss in the treated area, depending on the location of the treatment.

 

- **Radiation therapy recall**: In some cases, radiation therapy can cause an inflammatory reaction in the skin in the area where chemotherapy was previously given, even if the drug was given earlier. This phenomenon is known as "radiation therapy recall".

 

Radiation toxicity**: High doses of radiation therapy can damage nearby healthy tissues and organs, causing toxicity and possible long-term side effects.

 

Infection**: Radiation can negatively affect the immune system, making the skin more susceptible to infection.

 

**Side effects of skin cancer treatment: Chemotherapy** Chemotherapy is one of the methods of treating skin cancer, as it relies on the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. Despite its effectiveness, it has side effects that may vary depending on the type and dose of drugs used, in addition to the general health condition and medical history of the individual. Possible side effects of chemotherapy for skin cancer include:

 

- **Nausea and vomiting**: Chemotherapy drugs can cause nausea and vomiting, and anti-nausea medications may be prescribed to relieve these symptoms.

 

- **Hair loss**: Chemotherapy can cause hair loss, either in the treated area or all over the body.

 

- **Fatigue**: Patients may feel tired or exhausted, which can range from mild to severe.

 

- **Mouth sores**: Chemotherapy can cause sores in the mouth, which can make it difficult to eat or drink.

 

- **Weakened immune system**: Chemotherapy can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infection.

 

- **Anemia**: Chemotherapy can cause a decrease in the number of red blood cells, leading to anemia.

 

Skin changes**: Some chemotherapy drugs can cause skin changes, such as redness, dryness, or peeling.

 

**Side effects of skin cancer treatment: Targeted therapy** Targeted therapy is a type of treatment used to treat skin cancer, where medications are used to target specific molecules or genes that play a role in the growth and spread of cancer cells. Despite its effectiveness, targeted therapy can also cause side effects that vary depending on the type of medication used, as well as the individual's overall health and medical history. Potential side effects of targeted therapy for skin cancer include:

 

- **Skin changes**: Targeted therapy may cause changes in the skin, such as rash, dryness, or redness. Some medications can also cause hand-foot syndrome, which is characterized by redness, swelling, and pain in the hands and feet.

 

- **Fatigue**: Targeted therapy can cause a feeling of fatigue or exhaustion, which can range from mild to severe.

 

- **Digestive problems**: Side effects may include digestive problems such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation.

 

- **High blood pressure**: Some targeted medications may cause an increase in blood pressure.

 

- **Liver toxicity**: Some targeted therapy drugs can cause liver toxicity, which may require close monitoring.

 

Bleeding problems**: Some targeted therapy drugs can cause bleeding problems, such as increased bruising or bleeding.

 

**Side effects of skin cancer treatment: Immunotherapy**Immunotherapy is a type of treatment used to fight skin cancer, as it relies on using medications to stimulate the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. Despite its effectiveness, immunotherapy can cause some side effects that vary depending on the type of medication used, in addition to the individual's general health and medical history. Possible side effects of immunotherapy for skin cancer include:

 

- **Skin changes**: Immunotherapy can cause skin changes, such as rash, dryness, or redness. Some medications can also cause vitiligo, which is characterized by patches of skin that lose color.

 

- **Fatigue**: Patients may feel tired or exhausted as a result of immunotherapy, and this feeling can range from mild to severe.

 

- **Digestive problems:** Immunotherapy can cause digestive problems, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation.

 

- **Immuno-related adverse events:** Because immunotherapy works to stimulate the immune system, it can lead to immune-related adverse events, such as infections in the lungs, liver, or kidneys.

 

**Skin cancer prevention**

 

Exposure to harmful sun rays is one of the main causes of skin cancer, as it is closely linked to 90% of cases of this disease. But do not worry, there are many effective ways to protect your skin and enjoy the outdoors safely without fear of the risks of skin cancer.

 

Why is sunscreen important?

 

Using a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days, is the essential step to protecting your skin from ultraviolet rays.

 

**How ​​to use sunscreen correctly**

 

**The appropriate amount:** It is recommended to use an adequate amount of sunscreen, as it is preferable to use about a teaspoon for the face and neck, and a small cup to cover the entire body.

 

**Renewal:** Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, or after swimming or sweating.

 

**Comprehensive coverage:** Make sure to apply sunscreen to all exposed areas of the body, and don't forget sensitive areas such as the face, neck and ears.

 

**Continuity:** Use sunscreen all year round, even on cloudy days.

 

Although it is important to use sunscreenSun protection, however, should not be your only protection. There are other ways to enhance your safety while outdoors, including:

 

**Protective clothing:** Wear loose, light-colored clothing that covers as much of your body as possible, and don’t forget to wear a wide-brimmed hat.

 

**Seek shade:** Try to avoid direct exposure to the sun during its peak, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.