Skin Cancer Overview and Facts
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Questions and Answers

What is a key characteristic of melanoma in terms of its behavior?

  • It is primarily localized and does not spread.
  • It has a tendency to metastasize to the brain. (correct)
  • It typically spreads to the liver.
  • It only affects the skin without internal complications.

Which diagnostic test uses radioactive glucose to locate malignant tumor cells?

  • Ultrasound exam
  • PET scan (correct)
  • X-Ray
  • CT scan

Which type of biopsy involves using a scalpel to remove a part of the growth?

  • Incisional biopsy (correct)
  • Punch biopsy
  • Shave biopsy
  • Excisional biopsy

What treatment option involves removing the tumor layer by layer?

<p>Mohs Surgery (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which cancer type is primarily known for spreading to the liver?

<p>Colorectal cancer (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary method used during surgery to check for cancer cells?

<p>Microscopic examination of tumour edges (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following procedures can be repeated multiple times for treatment?

<p>Curettage (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What treatment uses freezing to destroy abnormal tissue?

<p>Cryosurgery (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the best approach to treat actinic keratosis?

<p>Shave excision (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which therapy uses light to activate a drug that kills cancer cells?

<p>Photodynamic therapy (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of cancer can radiation therapy be used to treat?

<p>Basal cell carcinoma (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following treatments is NOT mentioned as an option?

<p>Hormone therapy (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can influence the prognosis of skin cancer?

<p>Type or subtype of the cancer (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant risk factor for developing skin cancer in adults?

<p>History of skin cancer (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which sign indicates that a mole or spot needs immediate investigation?

<p>Itching and bleeding (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which skin cancer type accounts for approximately 80% of all skin cancer cases?

<p>Basal Cell Carcinoma (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What description best fits Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

<p>Crusted or rough bump that can bleed (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What feature differentiates Nodular Basal Cell Carcinoma from other types?

<p>It has a pearl-like appearance (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which condition is characterized by well-demarcated plaques with surface crusting and scaling?

<p>Bowen's disease (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What usually indicates a precancerous condition on sun-exposed skin?

<p>Scaly, red patches (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which symptom needs immediate attention when found on a nail?

<p>Dark, demarcated line (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic is NOT associated with Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

<p>Sore that heals promptly (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are rough and dry skin patches indicative of in self-assessment?

<p>Precancerous lesions (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is accounted for by morphoeic BCC?

<p>5-10% (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which sign is NOT part of the ABCDE method for identifying melanoma?

<p>Bulging growth (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the treatment outlook for malignant melanoma when detected early?

<p>5-year survival rate is 99% (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a false statement regarding squamous cell carcinoma?

<p>It rarely bleeds. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What describes morphoeic BCC's appearance?

<p>Smooth, flat, and flesh-colored (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Where do malignant melanomas most commonly appear on the body?

<p>Back and legs (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common appearance feature of squamous cell carcinoma?

<p>Persistent red patch with uneven borders (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about skin cancer is accurate?

<p>Skin cancer can arise anywhere on the skin. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of skin cancer cases worldwide are caused by UV radiation?

<p>80-90% (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action when the UV index is 3 or higher?

<p>Stay out of the sun and wear sunscreen. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following can be categorized as a risk factor for developing skin cancer?

<p>Low melanin levels in the skin. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a misunderstanding regarding tanning beds?

<p>They are safer than natural sunlight. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How much risk of skin cancer is associated with having a family history of the disease?

<p>It has a significant impact, particularly for first-degree relatives. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of melanin is responsible for the reddish hues in freckles and red hair?

<p>Pheomelanin (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What advice is given regarding sun exposure from 11am to 3pm?

<p>Limit time in the sun during this period. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is true about melanoma statistics in Canada?

<p>Melanoma numbers are decreasing in Canada. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Skin Cancer

Any cancer starting in the skin; can occur anywhere, including palms, soles, scalp. May spread to other tissues.

Melanoma

A type of skin cancer that can sometimes start in the genital area; more common in some locations.

UV Radiation

Strong sunlight that increases skin cancer risk

Eumelanin

Pigment that creates varied brown skin tones and hair colours.

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Pheomelanin

Pigment creating reddish-brown colors in freckles and red hair.

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Vitamin D

Vitamin produced by sun exposure, crucial for bone health and mineral absorption.

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Sunscreen SPF

Sun protection factor; measures sunscreen's ability to block UVB rays.

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Skin Cancer Risk Factors

Variables increasing your chance of getting skin cancer

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UV Index

Indicates the strength of the sun's UV rays; helps determine sun protection needs.

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Risk of Skin Cancer (Canada)

Canadians born later in the 20th century have a higher chance of getting skin cancer.

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Morphoeic BCC

A skin cancer, a type of basal cell carcinoma, that's slow-growing, flat, and flesh-toned.

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Squamous Cell Carcinoma

A common skin cancer starting in the epidermis, often appearing as a wart-like growth that can crust and bleed, usually on sun-exposed areas.

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Malignant Melanoma

The deadliest skin cancer, often starting from a mole or appearing as an irregular spot; can spread to other parts of the body.

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ABCDEs of melanoma

A mnemonic used to detect melanoma: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter larger than 6mm, Evolving.

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Asymmetry (melanoma)

Two halves of the mole or spot look uneven.

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Border irregularity (melanoma)

An uneven edge or border of the mole or spot.

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Color variation (melanoma)

Different colors (e.g., black, brown, tan, red) present in the mole or spot.

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Diameter larger than 6mm (melanoma)

The mole or spot's size is bigger than about 6 millimeters.

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Melanoma risk factors

Sunburns in adulthood and a history of skin cancer increase the chance of developing more skin cancers.

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Diameter of a mole or spot

Measurement of the width or breadth of a mole or spot. It's important to assess if it's larger than a pea.

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Skin cancer screening (people of color)

Look for dark spots, growths, sores that don't heal or heal then return, rough spots, dark lines under nails, and examine areas like feet, toenails, lower legs, groin and buttocks, even the inside of the mouth.

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Melanoma DNA changes

Melanoma development is more influenced by DNA changes than direct sunlight exposure.

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Evolving mole

A mole's change in size, shape, or color over time, especially within weeks or months. Note the changes, if any

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Nail Melanomas

Dark, demarcated lines on nails are serious and need immediate attention as they may indicate aggressive melanomas.

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PET scan

A medical imaging technique using radioactive glucose to find malignant tumors, which light up more. The scan locates where glucose is being used up in the body.

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Skin biopsy

A procedure to remove a sample of skin tissue for examination under a microscope by a pathologist to find diseases (e.g., cancer).

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Non-healing sores

Sores that continuously scab and bleed are a significant warning sign of possible skin cancer.

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Basal Cell Carcinoma

A common skin cancer originating from the basal layer of the epidermis.

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Mohs surgery

A surgery to treat skin cancer where the cancerous tissue is carefully removed layer-by-layer.

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Nodular BCC (characteristics)

Usually pink/flesh-colored raised papules, a pearly/rolled border, with a central depression and ulceration, and will not turn black.

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Superficial BCC (characteristics)

A type of basal cell carcinoma characterized by non-firm, scaly macules, patches, or thin plaques, most often occurring on the trunk and more common in young adults.

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Actinic Keratosis

Red patches of scaly skin, often appearing on sun-exposed areas of middle-aged people, and can be precancerous or not.

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Bowen's Disease

Solitary, well-defined plaques with surface crusting and scaling. Usually swollen and raised

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Shave excision

Removing abnormal skin area with a blade.

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Cryosurgery

Freezing and destroying abnormal tissue, often for superficial cancers.

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Curretage

Removing a tumour using a curette, followed by electric current to destroy remaining cells.

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Laser surgery

Using a laser to remove a lesion. Bloodless procedure.

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Photodynamic therapy

Treatment using a drug activated by light, concentrating in cancer cells.

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Radiation Therapy, Topical Fluouracil, Immunotherapy

Treatment methods used for specific types of skin cancers like basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma.

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Recurrence

Cancer returning after treatment.

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Factors influencing Prognosis

Size, depth, location, type, subtype, immunosuppression, and stage of cancer affect the outcome.

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Study Notes

Skin Cancer Overview

  • Skin cancer is any cancer originating in the skin, capable of spreading to nearby tissues and organs.
  • This can occur on any skin area, including the palms, soles, and scalp.
  • Melanoma often initiates in the genital region, particularly the labia majora and minora.
  • Many skin cancers are missed since they frequently develop on the back or scalp.
  • Skin cancers metastasize by spreading through the lymphatic system or bloodstream.

Melanin and Vitamin D

  • Eumelanin produces brown and black skin tones, as well as brown and blonde hair.
  • Pheomelanin is associated with reddish-brown freckles and red hair.
  • Vitamin D is produced from UV exposure and assists in mineral absorption, deficiency can lead to rickets.

Skin Cancer Facts

  • Worldwide, skin cancer accounts for one-third of all cancers, primarily caused by UV radiation.
  • Canadians born in the 1990s face a significantly higher skin cancer risk compared to those in the 1960s (2-3x higher risk).
  • Skin cancer diagnoses are exceeding those of breast, prostate, lung, and colon cancers combined in some regions.
  • Skin cancer incidence is higher in Australia compared to some other countries.

Skin Cancer Prevention

  • Protective measures like covering up are crucial when the UV Index is 3 or above.
  • Wear light-colored, long-sleeved clothing and a wide-brimmed hat made of breathable material.
  • Use sunglasses with protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
  • Limit sun exposure, ideally avoiding the sun between 11 AM and 3 PM when the UV Index is high.
  • Use sunscreen with a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher, and reapply every 2-3 hours, particularly in water or high exposure situations.
  • Avoid tanning equipment.

Risk Factors for Skin Cancer

  • Individuals with fair skin are more susceptible due to lower melanin content.
  • Having a high number of moles is also a risk factor.
  • Using tanning beds elevates the risk of skin cancer more than smoking.
  • A family history of skin cancer significantly increases an individual's risk, specifically if it involves first-degree relatives.
  • Individuals who had severe sunburns as children or teenagers face higher melanoma risk.
  • People with a history of skin cancer have an increased risk of further skin cancers in other areas.

Screening for Skin Cancer

  • Look for dark spots, growths, or patches changing in appearance, color, or size, particularly skin areas that receive less sun such as the soles of the feet, toenails, palms, genital region, inside the mouth etc.
  • Note unusual sores that do not heal or keep returning, especially sores on previously injured skin.
  • Pay attention to rough, dry patches of skin.
  • Check for dark streaks or lines under or around toenails or fingernails.
  • Examine areas with less sun exposure, like the bottoms of the feet, toenails, lower legs, groin, and buttocks.
  • Any new spots, moles, or moles that bleed, itch, or change color should immediately be investigated.

Types of Skin Cancer

  • Basal cell carcinoma: A dome-shaped, pearly growth, often pink or flesh-colored, common on the face and scalp.
  • Squamous cell carcinoma: Often appearing as a rough, crusty bump or a red, scaly patch and usually found on sun-exposed regions of the body.
  • Melanoma: Often characterized by asymmetrical shape, uneven edges, multiple colors, a diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and a changing appearance. The most dangerous type of skin cancer.
  • Merkel cell carcinoma: A rare cancer that manifests as a small, firm nodule. More aggressive than BCC, often on sun-exposed areas.

Precancerous Lesions

  • Actinic keratosis: Appears as red patches with scaly, poorly defined edges and typically occurs in sun-exposed areas.
  • Bowen's disease: Manifests as well-defined, scaly plaques that can be crusting in nature.

Further Diagnosis for Skin Cancer

  • X-rays
  • CT scans
  • PET scans
  • Ultrasound scans
  • Eye exams
  • Lymph node biopsies

Skin Cancer Treatment

  • Excision, Mohs surgery, and cryosurgery aim to remove skin cancer tissue.
  • Shaving, laser surgery, and dermabrasion address precancerous lesions.
  • Radiation therapy and other topical therapies target basal cell or squamous cell carcinomas.

Factors Influencing Skin Cancer Prognosis

  • Recurrence rate, tumor depth, location on the body, type, immunosuppression levels, and cancer stage all impact prognosis.

Immunotherapy in Skin Cancer Treatment

  • Utilizing a patient's immune system to combat cancer.
  • Involves PD-1 inhibitors.

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This quiz provides an overview of skin cancer, including its types, risk factors, and the role of melanin and vitamin D in skin health. It highlights the alarming statistics related to skin cancer prevalence and its correlation with UV exposure. Test your knowledge about the facts surrounding skin cancer and its effects on individuals.

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