Skin Cancer

What is Skin Cancer?

The skin is part of the integumentary system, which helps regulate body temperature and protects the body from abrasion, water loss, and infection. The skin is made up of several layers, each composed of different cell types. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States and occurs when skin cells begin multiplying uncontrollably. The type of skin cancer depends on which cells are affected.

Melanoma

• Usually appears flat with a blotchy or smudgy appearance.
• Can spread quickly if not treated and may become life-threatening.

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

• The most common but least dangerous form of skin cancer.
• Often appears as a shiny or raised area on the skin.
• Typically grows slowly on the head, neck, or upper torso.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

• Develops in the uppermost layers of the skin (epidermis).
• Grows slower than melanoma but can spread if untreated.
• Often appears on areas exposed to the sun.

Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC)

• A rare cancer that begins in touch-sensing Merkel cells.
• Considered a neuroendocrine cancer because it has features of both nerve and hormone-producing cells.
• Usually occurs in areas of the skin exposed to sunlight.

Sebaceous Gland Carcinoma

• Originates in oil glands that lubricate and protect the skin.
• Uncommon but aggressive and may cause hardened or nodular skin changes.

Kaposi Sarcoma (KS)

• Develops from cells lining blood or lymph vessels.
• Can appear as purple, red, or brown blotches on the skin.

Cutaneous Lymphoma 

• A rare lymphoma that begins in the skin.
• Also known as a “cutaneous lymphoma,” meaning it originates in the skin rather than lymph nodes.

What Causes Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer develops due to genetic changes in skin cells that lead to uncontrolled growth. Factors that increase the risk include:

• Excessive UV exposure from sunlight or tanning beds
• History of sunburns, especially during childhood
• Fair skin that burns or freckles easily
• Blonde or red hair, blue or green eyes
• Family or personal history of skin cancer
• Weakened immune system
• Exposure to radiation or certain chemicals
• Presence of many or unusual moles

How Is Skin Cancer Detected?

Skin cancer detection often begins with self-examination. Regularly check your skin for new moles, growths, or changes in existing marks. Report any changes to your doctor immediately. During a professional evaluation, your doctor may:

• Perform a full-body skin exam
• Record the size, shape, and color of suspicious areas
• Check nearby lymph nodes for swelling
• Order a biopsy, in which a small tissue sample is taken for laboratory analysis

If cancer is confirmed, additional tests or imaging may be performed to determine if it has spread.

Signs and Symptoms of Skin Cancer

The following may indicate skin cancer but can also occur with other conditions:

• New or unusual growths on the skin
• Changes in the size, shape, or color of existing moles or marks
• Bleeding or scabbing sores that do not heal

Stages of Skin Cancer

Staging determines how far the cancer has spread and guides treatment. The stages, based on the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC), are:

Stage 0

Cancer cells are confined to the outermost skin layer and can often be cured with surgical removal.

Stage I

Cancer has grown deeper into the skin but has not spread to lymph nodes or other organs.

Stage II

Cancer is larger or more deeply invasive but still confined to the skin.

Stage III

CCancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes but not to distant parts of the body.

Stage IV

Cancer has spread to distant lymph nodes, tissues, or organs.

How Is Skin Cancer Treated?

Treatment depends on the type and stage of skin cancer and may include:

• Surgery to remove the tumor and surrounding tissue
• Radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells in localized areas
• Chemotherapy or immunotherapy for advanced cases
• Targeted therapy for specific genetic mutations

Your doctor will recommend a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Important factors to consider include your age, health, cancer stage, and personal preferences.

Our Approach

We understand that a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming and scary. At The New York Cancer & Blood Specialists, we build our care teams around you. Our expert oncologists will guide you through every step, answering your questions and providing compassionate support. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms that may be related to skin cancer, please call us at (855) 528-7322 or make an appointment online.