Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is a term used to describe cancers that develop in the skin, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).
It is one of the most common forms of cancer, and early diagnosis is important as most skin cancers can be treated effectively when detected early.
Skin cancer may appear as a new lesion or as a change in an existing mole or area of skin.
At The London Skin and Hair Clinic, Consultant Dermatologists assess suspicious lesions, provide skin cancer screening and advise on appropriate treatment options. Patients seeking specialist dermatology care in London can access expert assessment.
Skin cancer is a blanket term referring to cancers affecting the skin covering melanoma, BCC and SCC
Exposure to UVA and UVB rays from the sun is a leading cause of skin cancer
Certain individuals are predisposed to cancer due to a family history of the disease, or genetic factors such as being fair skinner
Treatment can range from surgery excision of the skin cancer to topical treatment with PDT (photodynamic therapy) for superficial skin cancer
What causes Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer is primarily caused by damage to skin cells from ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Common sources include:
- exposure to sunlight (UVA and UVB rays)
- tanning beds or sunbeds
Over time, repeated exposure damages the DNA in skin cells, increasing the risk of cancer developing.
While sunburn is strongly linked to melanoma, cumulative sun exposure is also a major cause of non-melanoma skin cancers such as BCC and SCC.
Who is at risk of Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer can affect anyone, but risk is higher in individuals with certain characteristics or exposures.
Risk factors include:
- fair skin that burns easily
- a history of sunburn or prolonged sun exposure
- use of tanning beds
- a family history of skin cancer
- a high number of moles or atypical moles
People with weakened immune systems or a previous history of skin cancer are also at increased risk.
What are the symptoms of Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer symptoms can vary depending on the type, but early signs often involve visible changes in the skin.
Common warning signs include:
- a new or changing mole
- a lesion that does not heal within four weeks
- a sore that bleeds, crusts or becomes painful
- red, scaly patches or persistent lumps
For melanoma, the ABCDE guide can help identify concerning features:
Asymmetry – one half does not match the other
Border – irregular or poorly defined edges
Colour – variation in colour
Diameter – often larger than 6mm
Evolution – any change in size, shape or appearance
Any persistent or changing skin lesion should be assessed by a dermatologist.
Images of Skin Cancer
These images are kindly provided by DermNetNZ.org for non-commercial use, for the purpose of education and information. The images have not been modified and DermNetNZ do not endorse The London Skin and Hair Clinic. You can find a copy of the license at http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/3.0/nz/.
How does a Dermatologist diagnose Skin Cancer?
A dermatologist will assess the skin through clinical examination.
A dermatoscope is used to examine lesions in detail and identify features associated with skin cancer.
Where required, digital imaging may be used to monitor lesions over time.
If a lesion appears suspicious, a biopsy may be performed so the tissue can be analysed in a laboratory to confirm the diagnosis.
How is Skin Cancer treated?
Skin cancer treatment depends on the type, size and stage of the cancer, as well as individual patient factors.
In many cases, treatment involves removing the affected area of skin.
Common approaches include:
- surgical excision to remove the cancerous lesion
- minor skin surgery performed under local anaesthetic
- biopsy procedures to confirm diagnosis and guide treatment
- topical treatments or photodynamic therapy (PDT) for superficial skin cancers
- Early-stage skin cancers can often be treated successfully with straightforward procedures.
Following treatment, patients may be advised to attend follow-up appointments to monitor for recurrence or new lesions.
Preventative measures, including sun protection and regular skin checks, are an important part of long-term management
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