1. Skin Cancer Anatomy & Physiology Mrs. Halkuff

2. Metastasize (Metastasis): Spreading of cancer Benign: A non- cancerous tumor Malignant: A cancerous tumor Carcinoma: Cancer Carcinogen: Cancer-causing agent

3. Causes for Skin Cancer 1. Overexposure to UV light 2. Frequent skin infections 3. Chemical exposure 4. Physical trauma

4. Basal Cell Carcinoma  Most common form of skin cancer  Least deadly  Stratum Germinativum cells are altered and the boundary between the dermis and epidermis is destroyed  Occurs most commonly on sun exposed areas (face)  Full cure in 99% of cases

5. Squamous Cell Carcinoma Arises from Stratum Spinosum Found most commonly on scalp, ears, back of hands, and lower lip. Can metastasize to the lymph nodes Believed to be sun induced Good chance of complete cure

6. Malignant Melanoma Cancer of the melanocytes Accounts for 5% of skin cancer Found wherever there is pigment Metastasizes quickly to lymph and blood vessels. Survival is helped by early detection

7. Check the ABCD’s A- Asymmetry B- Boarder Irregularity C- Color D- Diameter