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Symptoms and courseThe incidence of skin cancer accounts for approximately 7.5% of cases in women and 6.8% in men. An increase in the incidence of this type of cancer is noted after the age of 20. The skin is the largest organ in the human body, has numerous protective functions and also produces the important vitamin D. Approximately 80% of skin cancers are localised in the head and neck area. The human epidermis consists of five layers; it is the cells that make up the basal and squamous layers that most often give rise to tumours. Small lesions (growths, abrasions) appearing on the skin are the most frequent sign of skin cancer, so it is important to keep a close eye on your skin every day, especially on any new lesions.
Symptoms and course skin cancer
Risk factors include:
- exposure to the sun's rays,
- solar keratosis,
- age,
- scars from burns or chronic inflammation,
- infection with human papilloma virus,
- occupational contact with arsenic compounds or tar derivatives.
Skin lesions should be observed closely:
- small, smooth, glowing, pale or waxy nodules,
- red, stiff nodules,
- nodules or ulcers that bleed,
- red or brown, hard or rough spots.
Most skin cancers can be completely cured.
The most common treatments include:
- surgery - this aims to remove the skin cancer and can be done in several ways (excisional biopsy, micrographic surgery, electrocoagulation, cryotherapy, laser therapy, skin grafts),
- chemotherapy,
- radiotherapy- used to treat squamous cell and basal cell carcinoma of the skin.
After treatment, it is very important to check the skin carefully. Remember to also check the skin of the back, the scalp, the genital area and the skin between the buttocks carefully.
