Did you know that roughly 40 percent of people will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their life? Cancer is a serious but common condition that can lead to death. That said, your prognosis is much better if the cancer is caught early. Worried about skin cancer and living near Lafayette, Boulder, Brighton CO? Contact Boulder Valley Center for Dermatology and chat with Dr. Thomas Gallagher, a dermatologist experienced in dealing with cancer.
Skin cancer is among the most common forms of cancer. Let’s take a look at some of the most common types of skin cancer and also potential signs that you might be suffering from cancer.
Basal Cell Carcinoma Skin Cancer
The most common type of skin cancer is Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) cancer. This cancer is especially common in people with fair skin, although it can occur no matter your skin coloring. Your basal cells produce new skin cells as your old ones die off. Unfortunately, they can grow out of control, resulting in cancer.
Basal cell carcinoma cancer usually produces a bump on your skin, which may appear transparent or pinkish. BCC is associated with too much exposure to ultraviolet light and is most common on the neck, arms, and head. That said, it can form anywhere. BCC rarely spreads beyond the original tumor site.
Melanoma Skin Cancer
While Basal Cell Carcinoma may be the most common type of cancer, the most infamous type is probably melanoma. This cancer is perhaps the most dangerous common skin cancer because it can spread far and wide. Melanoma often looks like a dark mole and may appear quite suddenly.
Melanoma can spread not just across your skin but throughout your body. It may reach your liver, lungs, and other organs, where it can take root then spread further. Once melanoma spreads to other organs, it’s especially difficult to treat. If you or a loved one is worried about melanoma, stop by the Boulder Valley Center for Dermatology to discuss skin cancer treatment in Lafayette, Boulder, Brighton CO.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma Skin Cancer
The second most common type of skin cancer, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) skin cancer, is more likely to develop among those with lighter skin. Still, people with darker skin can still suffer from SCC cancer.
Typically, squamous cell carcinoma cancer appears as a firm red bump or scaly patch. It may look like a sore and may open and reopen. This cancer is more likely to form on skin that is frequently exposed to the sun, such as your arms and hands. SCC cancer can also spread deep into your skin, causing permanent damage and even disfigurement.
Worried about skin cancer and living near Lafayette, Boulder, Brighton CO? Call the Boulder Valley Center for Dermatology at (303) 604-1444 (Boulder), (303) 604-1444 (Brighton), or (303) 604-1444 (Lafayette) and chat with Dr. Gallagher, a dermatologist experienced in treating cancer.
