Unit
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): BCC arises from the basal layer of the epidermis and is the most common skin cancer worldwide. It appears as a pearly or waxy bump, often with visible blood vessels. BCC grows slowly and rarely metastasizes, but local invasion can cause tissue damage if untreated.
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): SCC originates from keratinocytes in the upper epidermis. It often presents as a firm, red nodule or a flat lesion with a scaly crust. SCC has a higher risk of metastasis than BCC, particularly when located on mucous membranes or in immunocompromised patients.
- Melanoma: Melanoma develops from melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells. It is the most aggressive skin cancer due to its high metastatic potential. Melanomas often appear as asymmetric, irregularly bordered, multicolored moles. Early detection significantly improves prognosis.
- Merkel cell carcinoma: This rare but aggressive neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin typically presents as a fast-growing, painless, firm nodule on sun-exposed areas. It has a high rate of local recurrence and metastasis, requiring prompt multidisciplinary management.
- Cutaneous lymphoma: A group of lymphomas that primarily involve the skin, with mycosis fungoides being the most common. Symptoms include patches, plaques, or tumors that may be itchy. Diagnosis requires skin biopsy with immunophenotyping.
- Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP): A rare soft tissue sarcoma that arises in the dermis. It presents as a slow-growing, indurated plaque that can become nodular. DFSP rarely metastasizes but has a high local recurrence rate if not excised with wide margins.
- Kaposi sarcoma: A vascular tumor caused by human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8), often seen in immunocompromised individuals. Lesions appear as purple or red macules, plaques, or nodules on skin and mucous membranes. Treatment focuses on immune restoration and local therapy.
- Actinic keratosis: While not a cancer, actinic keratosis is a premalignant lesion of sun-damaged skin that can progress to SCC. It appears as dry, scaly patches and is treated with cryotherapy, topical chemotherapy, or photodynamic therapy to prevent malignant transformation.
- Lentigo maligna melanoma: A subtype of melanoma that arises from lentigo maligna, a precancerous lesion. It typically occurs on sun-damaged skin in older adults, presenting as a slowly enlarging, irregularly pigmented macule. Treatment often involves surgical excision with careful margin assessment due to its lateral spread pattern.
- Angiosarcoma: A rare, aggressive endothelial cell malignancy that often arises in the scalp or face of elderly individuals. It appears as bruise-like patches or nodules that may ulcerate. Prognosis is poor due to high rates of local recurrence and distant metastasis, often requiring multimodality therapy.
- Sebaceous carcinoma: A rare aggressive tumor derived from sebaceous glands, frequently occurring in the periocular region. It presents as a firm, painless nodule that can mimic benign conditions. It has a tendency to recur locally and metastasize, requiring wide excision and long-term follow-up.
Scope of Practice
Role: Health Educator in Community Skin Cancer Prevention Program
Within scope:
- Educating community members on recognizing suspicious lesions and seeking professional evaluation.
- Providing information on sun protection behaviors such as sunscreen use and protective clothing.
- Distributing educational materials approved by practicing dermatologists.
- Conducting skin cancer awareness workshops and health fairs.
- Documenting outreach activities and participant demographics.
Outside scope:
- Diagnosing skin lesions or performing skin examinations.
- Recommending specific treatments or over-the-counter products.
- Interpreting biopsy results or pathology reports.
- Providing medical advice for individual cases.
- Prescribing sunscreens or other preventive medications.
Quick Revision
- BCC is the most common skin cancer; grows slowly and rarely metastasizes.
- SCC has higher metastatic risk, especially in immunocompromised patients.
- Melanoma is the most aggressive, with high metastatic potential.
- Merkel cell carcinoma is rare but aggressive, requiring prompt multidisciplinary care.
- Health educators can educate about prevention but cannot diagnose or treat.
Disclaimer
Educational use only. Not intended for practical surgery, incisions, or other surgical procedures. It does not qualify you to perform physical operations.