Melanoma Cancer and Risk Factors

Melanoma Cancer

• Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that can develop from existing moles or birthmarks.
• Highly metastatic, can spread to vital organs including the brain, lungs, bones, and liver.
• Identified by irregular, circular lesions with varied hues (tan, black, blue).
• Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improved survival rates.

Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer

• Non-melanoma skin cancers primarily develop in the epidermis, frequently due to sun exposure.
• Risk factors include chronic skin damage, genetic predisposition, ionizing radiation, light skin, age over 60, and outdoor occupations.
• Affected areas include sun-exposed regions such as the face, head, neck, and hands.
• Diagnosis is confirmed through skin biopsy.

Types of Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer

• Basal Cell Carcinoma: Arises from basal cells in the epidermis; metastasis is rare but can damage underlying tissues. Often presents as waxy nodules with pearly borders.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Originates from epidermal keratinocytes; prone to infiltration and lymph node metastasis. Lesions can ooze and bleed, with larger tumors posing a higher metastasis risk.

Skin Assessment for Melanoma

• Follow the ABCDE rule:
  • A: Asymmetry
  • B: Border irregularity
  • C: Color variation
  • D: Diameter greater than 6mm
  • E: Evolving appearance

Acne

• Acne is a chronic skin disorder influenced by hormonal changes during puberty, particularly androgens.
• Commonly presents on the face, neck, chest, shoulders, and back.
• Types of lesions include comedones (whiteheads and blackheads), pustules, papules, and nodules.
• Exacerbated by hormonal activity in females, oily skin, and genetic factors.

Acne Assessment and Interventions

• Encourage gentle skin cleansing; avoid scrubbing and excessive topical agents.
• Prescribe topical agents like benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin, and erythromycin to manage bacteria.
• Hormonal medications (oral contraceptives, spironolactone) may reduce sebum production.
• Educate clients on avoiding lesions and using noncomedogenic products.

Cellulitis

• Cellulitis is an infection of the dermis originating from pathogens like Streptococcus or Staphylococcus aureus.
• Occurs due to skin integrity compromise; risk factors include immunocompromised states, diabetes, and obesity.
• Symptoms include pain, tenderness, erythema, warmth, edema, and fever.

Assessment and Interventions for Cellulitis

• Examine for warmth, redness, and drainage; monitor vital signs.
• Diagnostics include Gram stain, CBC, and blood cultures if necessary.
• Interventions involve promoting rest, applying warm compresses, and observing hygiene practices.

Scabies

• Highly pruritic condition caused by Sarcoptes scabiei; characterized by intense itching, especially at night.
• Transmitted person-to-person; affected individuals may experience familial spread.

Assessment and Treatment of Scabies

• Diagnosis confirmed via microscopic skin scraping.
• Treatments include Elimite or Kwell, applied to the skin, followed by thorough washing after several hours.
• Consider high-risk environments and personal history for effective management.

Psoriasis

• Chronic non-infectious inflammation characterized by keratin synthesis and psoriatic patches.
• Forms include psoriasis vulgaris, often triggered by stress, trauma, infections, and hormonal changes.
• Manifestations include pruritus and silvery-white scales on raised plaques.

Management and Education for Psoriasis

• Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and epidermal cell proliferation; no cure exists.
• Education includes managing flare-ups and identifying triggers to maintain skin health.

This quiz covers key aspects of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer, focusing on risk factors such as sun exposure and genetic predisposition. It will help assess your understanding of skin cancer types and their underlying causes. Dive into the essential knowledge required to identify and prevent skin cancer effectively.