Skin Cancers

Skin Layers ©

Basal Cell Carcinoma Originates in the lowest layer of the epidermis Usually develops on sun exposed skin Begins as small, shiny, raised growths on the skin May ulcerate

Does not usually spread to other areas of the body, but destroys surrounding tissue

Basal Cell Carcinoma ©

Squamous Cell Carcinoma Originates in the middle layer of the epidermis Begins as a red area with a scaly, crusted surface Turns into an open sore if let untreated Most affect only the surrounding tissue, however, some do metastasize

Squamous Cell Carcinoma ©

Melanoma Originates in the pigment-producing cells of the skin (MELANOCYTES) May begin as a new pigmented growth Most develop from existing pigmented moles (NEVI—singular NEVUS)

Metastasizes: Readily spreads Diagnosis: Biopsied and sent to pathologist for confirmation Treatment: Surgical removal If advanced, other treatments will be necessary

Symptoms: Change in color, shape, or size of a mole Mole with asymmetrical border

Melanoma ©

Melanoma Examples ©

For Lab

Malignant Melanoma in the Eye