Melanomas have a resemblance to moles, but a close-up look reveals that
there are several differences. The round outline of a mole tends to be smoothly
defined, while the melanoma has a jagged edge. Melanoma is usually an irregularly
shaped lesion, bigger than 6mm across (about the same size as an eraser
on a pencil) and variegated in color (sometimes black).
Melanoma can spread quickly, but if it is detected in its early stages, it
is very curable. Any spot on your skin that itches, bleeds, oozes, or changes
in shape, size, or color, should be reported to your doctor. Other skin
conditions may cause similar symptoms, but let your physician assess the
situation.
Non-melanoma
Most skin cancers are non-melanomas, meaning they begin in skin cells other
than the melanocytes. According to the American Cancer Society, every year more
than one million people in the United States
are diagnosed with sun-related non-melanoma skin cancers.
Basal cell carcinoma is the most commonly diagnosed malignant skin
cancer. Basal cell is not usually life-threatening because it tends to stay in
small areas and grow slowly. Left unchecked, it will expand beyond its home
base in the epidermis level of the skin and move into deeper layers. This
malignant non-melanoma is also known as a “rodent ulcer.”
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most commonly diagnosed skin
cancer. Squamous cells can occur in old scars and are sometimes caused by
skin-affecting viruses. These cancerous cells originate in the epidermis skin
level and then spread to the surrounding area. In rare cases, this cancer
becomes life-threatening by moving into lymph nodes, important pockets
of cells in various locations along the body’s blood system.