Skin cancer
|
Skin cancer Microchapters |
| Skin cancer | |
| ICD-10 | C43-C44 |
|---|---|
| ICD-9 | 172, 173 |
| ICD-O: | 8010-8720 |
| MeSH | D012878 |
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Sara Mohsin, M.D.[2]Faizan Sheraz, M.D. [3]
Overview
Skin cancer is a malignant growth on the skin which can have many causes. Skin cancer generally develops in the epidermis (the outermost layer of skin), so a tumor is usually clearly visible. This makes most skin cancers detectable in the early stages. There are three common types of skin cancer, each of which is named after the type of skin cell from which it arises. Cancers caused by UV exposure may be prevented by avoiding exposure to sunlight or other UV sources, wearing sun-protective clothes, and using a broad-spectrum sun screen. Skin cancers are the fastest growing type of cancer in the United States. Skin cancer represents the most commonly diagnosed malignancy, surpassing lung, breast, colorectal and prostate cancer. More than 1 million Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer in 2007.[1]
Historical Perspective
Classification
The most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) which may be locally disfiguring but are unlikely to metastasize (spread to other parts of the body). The most dangerous type of skin cancer is malignant melanoma. This form of skin cancer can be fatal if not treated early but comprises only a small proportion of all skin cancers. More rare types of skin cancer include: • Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans • Merkel cell carcinoma • Kaposi's sarcoma
Pathophysiology
Causes
Differentiating Skin cancer from other Disorders
Epidemiology & Demographics
Risk factors
Screening
Natural History, Complications, and Prognosis
Diagnosis
Staging | History and Symptoms | Physical Examination | Laboratory Tests | Biopsy | Chest X Ray | MRI | CT | Echocardiography or Ultrasound | Other Imaging Findings | Other Diagnostic Studies
Treatment
Medical Therapy | Surgery | Primary Prevention | Secondary Prevention | Cost-Effectiveness of Therapy | Future or Investigational Therapies