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Archive for category: Skin Cancer LandingPage Featured

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What is Merkel Cell Carcinoma?

Merkel cell carcinoma is a very rare disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the skin. Merkel cells are found in the top layer of the skin. These cells are very close to the nerve endings that receive the sensation of touch. Merkel cell carcinoma, also called neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin or trabecular cancer, is a very rare type of skin cancer that forms when Merkel cells grow out of control. Merkel cell carcinoma starts most often in areas of skin exposed to the sun, especially the head and neck, as well as the arms, legs, and trunk.

Genetics of Skin Cancer

The genetics of skin cancer is an extremely broad topic. There are more than 100 types of tumors that are clinically apparent on the skin; many of these are known to have familial components, either in isolation or as part of a syndrome with other features. This is, in part, because the skin itself is a complex organ made up of multiple cell types. Furthermore, many of these cell types can undergo malignant transformation at various points in their differentiation, leading to tumors with distinct histology and dramatically different biological behaviors, such as squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell cancer (BCC). These have been called nonmelanoma skin cancers or keratinocytic cancers.

How to Treat a Sunburn

Sunburns are dangerous ailments. They aren't just painful, peeling, itchy, unsightly blemishes—they also increase your risk of developing skin cancer, particularly in children, who may be twice as likely to develop melanoma if they get even a single blistering sunburn. When sunburns do occur, however, take the steps necessary to reduce the pain and alleviate the damage. Sunburns are sneaky—they start with a tell-tale tingling or feeling of tightness in the skin during the initial exposure, followed by a slow reddening, but may take 4–6 hours to fully develop.

Infographic: Protecting Your Skin From the Sun

Harmful UV rays pose a significant threat to the health of our skin. Sunburns, premature aging, and skin cancer are all common side effects of frequent exposure to the sun. It's simple to protect yourself from these dangers—apply sunscreen, don't use tanning beds, wear protective clothing, and stay out of the sun when possible, especially during the middle of the day. By making these activities a part of your daily routine, you can maintain healthy skin and avoid skin cancer. Download and print the infographic below, put it on the refrigerator, and keep yourself safe from the sun!

Benefits of Radiation Therapy for Skin Cancer

Radiation therapy is a safe, effective, and non-invasive treatment option for non-melanoma skin cancer, including basal and squamous cell carcinoma. Surgery is the most common treatment option for non-melanoma skin cancer, particularly for minor, early-stage cases. Radiation, however, provides an excellent option as an alternative to surgery in many cases, as well as optimizing the effectiveness of skin cancer treatment when paired with surgery as an adjunct therapy.

Radiation Therapy for Skin Cancer

Radiation therapy may be given as a primary treatment or as an adjunct to surgery for squamous cell and basal cell carcinomas. As radiation oncologists, we coordinate with the physicist and treatment planning team to personalize the therapy to cover the exact depth and perimeter of the skin cancer with a very small border of normal skin.

When to Consider Radiation Therapy for Skin Cancer

In many cases, radiation therapy provides an excellent alternative to invasive surgery. While surgery provides a handful of effective and safe treatments techniques for non-melanoma skin cancer, radiation therapy may be the best option for many people, either independently, or in conjunction with surgery.

How the Sun Damages Skin

While sunburns are painful and unsightly, they are far from the most dangerous aspect of UV radiation. After the sunburn fades, severe UV radiation damage and/or long-term sun exposure can alter our DNA and cause us to develop skin cancer.

How to Protect Yourself from the Sun

Choosing the best sunscreen for your skin type, geographic location, and outdoor activities is important. But before delving into the specifics, it's important to use sunscreen it a way that allows it to do its job in the most effective way.
Cancer Research UK / Wikimedia Commons

What is Melanoma?

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer caused by damage to the DNA of melanocyte cells in the skin. Melanocytes produce melanin, a pigment in skin that is primarily responsible for skin color. When melanocytes DNA is damaged, it may cause the cells to mutate—leading to rapid, uncontrolled growth and the formation of malignant tumors.