Skin cancer is a serious and widespread condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Understanding the different types of skin cancer—specifically Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), and Melanoma—is essential for its prevention and treatment. While skin cancer is often linked to sun exposure, various other factors contribute to its development.
Let’s discuss the types of skin cancer, their symptoms, and the alternative treatment options available at the Immunity Therapy Center.
Introduction to Skin Cancer
Skin cancer begins in the cells of the skin and can occur anywhere on the body, but it most commonly appears in areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, and arms.1 The incidence of skin cancer has been on the rise, with millions of new cases diagnosed each year.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70. Despite these alarming statistics, early detection and treatment can greatly increase the chances of a full recovery. It is also essential to know what types of skin cancer are there so you know what to watch out for.
Common Types of Skin Cancer
There are several types of skin cancer, each with its own characteristics and potential risks. The most common types are Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), and Melanoma. These cancers differ in terms of origin, appearance, and severity.
So, what are the different skin cancer types? Here are some of them:
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for approximately 80% of all cases.2 It originates in the basal cells, which are found at the bottom of the epidermis, the skin’s outer layer. While BCC is generally slow-growing and rarely spreads to other parts of the body, it can cause significant damage to the skin and surrounding tissue if left untreated.
Common symptoms of BCC include:
- A pearly or waxy bump on the face, ears, or neck.
- A flat, flesh-colored, or brown scar-like lesion.
- A sore that bleeds, oozes, or crusts and remains open for several weeks.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
Squamous Cell Carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer.3 It arises from the squamous cells, which are located just above the basal cells in the epidermis. SCC can appear on any part of the body but is most often found on sun-exposed areas like the face, ears, and hands. Unlike BCC, SCC is more likely to spread to other parts of the body if not caught early.
Symptoms of SCC include:
- A firm, red nodule.
- A flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface.
- A new sore or raised area on an old scar or ulcer.
Melanoma
Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. It develops in the melanocytes, which produce melanin, which gives the skin its color. Although it accounts for only about 1% of skin cancer cases, melanoma is responsible for the majority of skin cancer deaths.4 Early detection of this type of skin cancer is crucial, as melanoma can spread rapidly to other organs if not treated promptly.
Key signs of melanoma include:
- A large brownish spot with darker speckles.
- A mole that changes in color, size, or feel, or that bleeds.
- A small lesion with an irregular border and portions that appear red, pink, white, blue, or black.
- A painful lesion that itches or burns.
Risk Factors and Symptoms
Understanding the risk factors associated with skin cancer can help in taking preventative measures while recognizing the symptoms early on can lead to prompt diagnosis and treatment. Both genetic and environmental factors contribute to the development of skin cancer, and being aware of these can empower you to take control of your health.
Here are some of the things that you need to watch out for:
Genetic and Environmental Risk Factors
When considering the risk factors for skin cancer, many people ask, “Is skin cancer genetic?” The answer is yes, genetics can play a significant role in the development of skin cancer. However, environmental factors are also crucial contributors. How can you avoid skin cancer? Understanding both genetic and environmental risk factors can help in taking preventative measures, such as wearing sunscreen, avoiding excessive sun exposure, and ensuring early detection.
Here are some of the factors for skin cancer:
- Family History of Skin Cancer: A family history of skin cancer, especially melanoma, significantly raises the risk of developing the disease. Genetic mutations that predispose individuals to skin cancer can be inherited, making it important for those with a family history to take extra precautions and undergo regular skin checks.
- Prolonged UV Radiation Exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and artificial sources like tanning beds is the primary environmental risk factor for skin cancer. Long-term exposure damages the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations that can result in cancer. Regular use of sun protection and limiting exposure to UV rays are crucial preventive measures.
- Fair Skin and Light Features: Individuals with fair skin, light-colored eyes, and red or blonde hair have lower levels of melanin, the pigment that provides some protection against UV radiation. This makes them more susceptible to skin damage from UV exposure and increases their risk of developing skin cancer.
- History of Severe Sunburns: Experiencing severe, blistering sunburns, particularly during childhood or adolescence, increases the risk of skin cancer later in life. Early UV exposure can cause long-lasting damage to the skin, making it crucial to protect children and teenagers from excessive sun exposure.
- Use of Tanning Beds: The use of tanning beds, which emit concentrated UV radiation, is a significant risk factor for skin cancer. Tanning beds expose the skin to high levels of UV radiation, often at levels much higher than natural sunlight, leading to an increased risk of both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers.
Early Warning Signs and Symptoms
Early detection of skin cancer is critical for successful treatment. While each type of skin cancer has its own distinct characteristics, there are common early warning signs that everyone should be aware of. Recognizing these signs can lead to early diagnosis and better outcomes.
How does skin cancer start? Here are the early warning signs to watch for:
- Unusual Skin Growths: Look for new growths on the skin, especially those that appear pearly, waxy, or scaly. These could indicate Basal cell skin cancer or Squamous cell cancer.
- Changes in Moles or Lesions: Be alert for any changes in the size, shape, or color of existing moles, or the appearance of new, unusual lesions. These are potential signs of melanoma.
- Non-Healing Sores: A sore that bleeds, oozes, or crusts and doesn’t heal within a few weeks could be a sign of skin cancer, particularly BCC.
- Persistent Redness or Irritation: Red, scaly patches or areas that are consistently irritated or inflamed may indicate SCC.
- Pain or Itching: Lesions that itch, burn, or cause pain should be examined by a healthcare provider as they could be signs of melanoma or other skin cancers.
Regular skin checks and paying close attention to these symptoms can make a significant difference in catching skin cancer early when it is most treatable. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider promptly.
Treatment and Alternative Therapies
At Immunity Therapy Center, we believe in treating the whole person, not just the disease. Our approach to skin cancer treatment is rooted in alternative and holistic therapies that aim to support the body’s natural healing processes while minimizing side effects.
Here are some of our alternative and holistic approaches from Immunity Therapy Center:
Oxygen Treatments
This treatment improves tissue oxygenation, enhancing the immune system’s ability to fight cancer cells. Oxygen therapy is a safe and effective option for patients seeking a less aggressive treatment.
Hyperthermia
This skin cancer treatment method uses heat to target and kill cancer cells without harming surrounding healthy tissue. Hyperthermia is particularly effective in combination with other treatments, as it increases the sensitivity of cancer cells to therapy.
Immunotherapy
By strengthening the body’s natural defenses, immunotherapy helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively. This approach is particularly promising for treating melanoma, which can be resistant to other forms of treatment.
Biomagnetic Therapy
Biomagnetic cancer therapy uses magnets to improve circulation and reduce pain. It supports overall well-being and enhances the effectiveness of other treatments for abnormal cells.
Enzyme Therapy
This enzyme therapy involves using enzymes to improve digestion and boost immune function, helping the body better combat cancer cells.
Holistic Cancer Treatments at ITC
Understanding the different types of skin cancer—basal Cell Carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and Melanoma—is the first step in taking control of your health. Early detection and a comprehensive treatment plan that includes alternative therapies can significantly improve outcomes and provide a path to healing.
At Immunity Therapy Center, we’re committed to offering hope through holistic cancer treatments tailored to each individual’s needs. If you or a loved one is facing a skin cancer diagnosis, contact us today to learn more about our approach to care.
Written By: Dr. David Alvarez
Dr. David Alvarez is a Board Certified Medical Doctor from Universidad Xochicalco and Certified by the American Heart Association (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support).
Dr. Alvarez has been collaborating with Dr. Bautista as an Assistant Medical Director at the Immunity Therapy Center for over 6 years. He provides daily on site patient care and participates on the medical board on research and development of patient treatment plans and programs. Dr. Alvarez is a knowledgeable and compassionate Doctor committed to helping patients get to where they want to be health wise through a more holistic and comprehensive approach.
Sources:
- American Cancer Society. What Are Basal and Squamous Cell Skin Cancers?. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/basal-and-squamous-cell-skin-cancer/about/what-is-basal-and-squamous-cell.html#
- Skin Cancer Foundation. Squamous Cell Carcinoma Overview. https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/squamous-cell-carcinoma/#
- My Cleveland Clinic. Melanoma. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14391-melanoma
At Immunity Therapy Center, our goal is to provide objective, updated, and research-based information on all health-related topics. This article is based on scientific research and/or other scientific articles. All information has been fact-checked and reviewed by Dr. Carlos Bautista, a Board Certified Medical Doctor at Immunity Therapy Center. All information published on the site must undergo an extensive review process to ensure accuracy. This article contains trusted sources with all references hyperlinked for the reader's visibility.