Every summer, you’ll likely hear warnings about the dangers of not using sunscreen when you go outside. This is because exposure to UV radiation greatly increases the risk of developing skin cancer. Most types of skin cancer are among the most treatable of cancers, but early detection is important to avoid spread.<\/p>\n
Affiliated Dermatology\u00ae conducts\u00a0many screenings<\/a><\/span>\u00a0for skin cancer in the greater Phoenix area. We know firsthand the benefits of early detection and the consequences of untreated skin cancer. This guide will go over the most common forms of skin cancer and what can happen if they aren’t caught in time.<\/p>\n Within the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin is a type of cell known as a squamous cell. When cancer forms in these cells, it’s known as squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Cancer can develop in various places in the body, including the skin, mouth, and some other organs. When it occurs on the skin, SCC manifests as a thick, rough patch of skin, often red and scaly. Several consequences of untreated skin cancer, such as this one, can include:<\/p>\n Squamous cell carcinoma can be life-threatening if it’s allowed to grow without treatment. If it metastasizes and moves to other organs, treatment options become more complicated, and the potential danger increases.<\/p>\n This is the most common type of skin cancer. It occurs within a type of skin cell known as a basal cell. These cells are responsible for producing new skin cells as old ones die. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) often occurs as a slightly transparent bump on the skin’s surface. Because its primary cause is exposure to UV radiation, BCC forms most often in areas exposed to the sun. There are several negative effects of ignoring skin cancer, like BCC:<\/p>\n Although the risk of this type of skin cancer spreading is low, it can become life-threatening if left untreated.<\/p>\n Melanin is the pigment that gives color to the skin. The substance is created in cells called melanocytes. Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that forms in these cells. It can often present as a harmless mole or bruise. This is a particularly dangerous form of skin cancer, and extra care should be taken to catch it early. Failure to do so can have severe consequences:<\/p>\n The likelihood of surviving melanoma diminishes substantially if it’s not treated early because of its potential to spread. Detecting it before it spreads offers a much higher survival rate.\u00a0 However, if it reaches other organs before being diagnosed, the survival odds decrease rapidly.<\/p>\n Affiliated Dermatology\u00ae can provide you with comprehensive skin cancer screenings as well as information about your risk factors and how you can avoid or detect skin cancer. To make an appointment, contact us<\/a>\u00a0today.<\/p>\n Image Credit: fusebulb<\/a> \/ Shutterstock<\/p>\nIs Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) Dangerous if Untreated?<\/h2>\n
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Can Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) Spread to Other Organs?<\/h2>\n
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How Fast Does Untreated Melanoma Spread? (The Danger of Delay)<\/h2>\n
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Skin Cancer Screenings and Treatments at Affiliated Dermatology<\/strong><\/h2>\n