Skin cancer
Natural Standard Bottom Line Monograph, Copyright © 2009 (www.naturalstandard.com). Commercial distribution prohibited. This monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. You should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.
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Acral lentiginous melanoma, actinic cheilitis, actinic keratoses, arsenical keratosis, biological therapy, Bowen's Disease, dysplastic nevi, Breslow's thickness, epidermis, familial atypical multiple mole melanoma (FAMMM), immunity, immunotherapy, Kaposi's sarcoma, lentigo maligna, melanin, melanocytes, nodular melanoma, oncogenes, Mohs' surgery, photodynamic therapy, seborrheic keratoses, squamous cells, sunscreen, topical immunotherapy, UV light. |
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Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells. It most often develops on skin exposed to the sun, but can also occur on areas that are not ordinarily exposed to sunlight. Skin cancer is generally divided into two stages, local (where the cancer affects only the skin) and metastatic (where cancer has spread beyond the skin). |
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More than one million new cases of skin cancer will be diagnosed in the United States this year. One in five Americans will develop some form of skin cancer during their lifetime. |
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The skin consists of three layers including the epidermis, dermis, and the subcutaneous layer. The epidermis is the outermost layer and is very thin. It provides a protective layer of skin cells that sheds continually. Squamous cells lie just below the outer surface. Basal cells, which produce new skin cells, are at the bottom of the epidermis. The epidermis also contains cells called melanocytes, which produce melanin, the pigment that gives skin its normal color and causes moles. When exposed to the sun, these cells produce more melanin that helps protect the deeper layers of skin. The extra melanin is what produces the darker color of tanned skin. |
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There are three major types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Basal and squamous cell carcinomas are slow-growing and generally highly treatable. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, if all forms of skin cancer are found early and treated appropriately, they are all nearly 100% curable. It is very important to limit or avoid exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and pay close attention to suspicious changes in the skin. |
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Content available for subscribers only.
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Content available for subscribers only.
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Content available for subscribers only.
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Content available for subscribers only.
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Content available for subscribers only.
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Content available for subscribers only.
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Content available for subscribers only.
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Content available for subscribers only.
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Content available for subscribers only.
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Content available for subscribers only.
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Natural Standard Monograph
(www.naturalstandard.com)
Copyright © 2009 Natural Standard Inc. Commercial distribution or
reproduction prohibited.
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The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes
only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns.
Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical
practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be
interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a
qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies,
diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.
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