The skin is the human body’s largest organ. Various changes on the outside, in the skin, can reflect the state of the internal organs and, thus, the body’s overall health. Paying attention to what’s happening on the skin can help us detect more severe conditions lurking beneath its surface. Even cancer can be detected and treated early.
Some skin diseases can be considered potential precursors to cancer or may be related to cancer. These types of skin diseases include the following:
- Actinic keratosis: This is a common skin disease usually caused by long-term exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Although most actinic keratoses are benign, a small percentage may progress to squamous cell carcinoma.
- Bowen’s disease: This is a very early form of squamous cell carcinoma, usually appearing as red, expanding patches or scaly skin lesions. It may appear in areas exposed to ultraviolet radiation, such as the face, arms, and legs.
- Melanocytic nevi (melanoma): Most melanocytic nevi are benign, but certain types may develop into malignant melanoma. Characteristics include uneven coloration, blurred edges, larger diameter (usually over 6 millimeters), and changes in appearance.
- Basal cell carcinoma: One of the most common types of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma usually originates from basal cells in the skin layer. It typically presents as chronic ulcers, red patches, flat warts, or bead-like lesions.
- Squamous cell carcinoma: This type of skin cancer originates from epidermal squamous cells and may present as red scaly patches, ulcers, or keratosis.
- Malignant melanoma: This is a serious type of skin cancer originating from melanocytes. It typically presents as black or brown moles, with changes in the mole such as uneven coloration, irregular shape, or blurred edges.
