Basal cell carcinoma : BCC

Skin cancer ---> Non melanoma skin cancer ---> Basal cell carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma (rodent ulcer) is a slow-growing, locally invasive tumor with virtually no capacity to metastasize.
Epidemiology
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer, approximately 4 times more common than squamous cell carcinoma.
Pathology
The most significant etiological factor is chronic excess ultraviolet radiation exposure. As a result, exposed areas such as the head and neck are most commonly involved. Other risk factors include increasing age, male gender, and skin phototypes I and II. Histologically there is a proliferation of atypical basal keratinocytes.
Clinical features
The clinical appearances and morphology are diverse and include nodular, morphoeic, superficial multifocal, keratotic and pigmented varieties.
The nodular basal cell carcinoma tends to arise on the forehead, nose or adjacent to the inner canthus of the eye as a skin-colored or pigmented, translucent nodule with surface telangiectasia. Gradual enlargement leads to central ulceration (ulcerated basal cell carcinoma) with a peripheral, 'rolled' pearly edge. There may also be cystic change (cystic or nodulocystic basal cell carcinoma). The morphoeic (sclerosing) basal cell carcinoma presents as a firm, indurated, skin-colored, scar-like plaque with ill-defined edges, commonly on the nasolabial fold or forehead. Superficial multifocal basal cell carcinomas tend to arise on extra-facial sites as red, scaly plaques and have no relation to sun exposure. Pigmented basal cell carcinomas may be brown, blue or black with a smooth glistening surface. Keratotic basal cell carcinomas have evidence of keratinization on histology.
Initial investigations
Skin biopsy
A skin biopsy confirms the diagnosis and determines the histological subtype. Alternatively, cytology can be performed on skin scrapings.
Initial management
Multidisciplinary team approach
Depending on the size and site of the basal cell carcinoma, dermatologists, clinical oncologists and plastic surgeons may all be involved in the management. Therefore, a multidisciplinary approach is favored.
Surgical management
Curettage and cautery
Curettage and cautery is a suitable option for patients with low-risk lesions (small, well-defined, primary lesion) and can achieve 5-year cure rates of up to 97%. Patients with recurrent morphoeic tumors in high-risk sites such as the nose, nasolabial folds and around the eyes should undergo formal surgical excision.
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy can be used on low-risk lesions with non-aggressive histology that are not recurrent lesions.
Surgical excision
The main aim of surgery is complete excision with a clear surgical margin.
Medical management
Radiotherapy
Radiotherapy is useful for treatment of basal cell carcinoma in locations where disfigurement results from surgical excision (although atrophy telangiectasia may develop in the long term and affect the cosmetic results). The 5-year cure is approximately 90%. Patients with recurrent lesions after radiotherapy should undergo surgical excision.
Topical 5-fluorouracil
Topical 5-fluorouracil is usually the treatment of choice for multiple superficial basal cell carcinomas on the trunk and lower limbs.
Palliative management options
Aggressive treatment can be inappropriate in elderly debilitated patients, especially for asymptomatic low-risk lesions. Palliative treatment such as debulking the tumor or radiotherapy may be more appropriate.
RECENT ADVANCES
Intralesional interferon and photodynamic therapy are still under investigation with some early promising results.
Prognosis
Metastasis is extremely rare and the morbidity is related to local tissue invasion and destruction. Patients with a single tumor are at a significant increased risk of developing subsequent basal cell carcinomas.

Basal Cell Carcinoma photos

skin cancer pictures ---> basal cell carcinoma ---> basal cell carcinoma photos.

Understanding Basal Cell Carcinoma (Skin Cancer #4)

Skin cancer awareness ---> skin cancer videos---> basal cell carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of all cancers. Learn more about BCC.

Basal Cell Carcinoma: BCC

Skin cancer ---> Non melanoma skin cancer ---> Basal cell carcinoma

BCC is the most common form of skin cancer. These epithelial- derived tumors can be divided into various subtypes according to clinical appearance, histologic pattern, and biologic behavior. Although BCCs rarely metastasize, they are characterized by slow but relentless and destructive local invasion that results in high morbidity without treatment. The subclinical local invasion may be deep, extensive, and asymmetric, with finger like extensions several centimeters beyond the clinical borders.
The most common subtype of BCC is the well-circumscribed nodular variety. These tumors often present as pearly papules or nodules with telangiectases. They may be pruritic and bleed occasionally. With time, the center ulcerates to create peripheral rolled borders; such ulcerating BCCs are called rodent ulcers. Occasionally, the lesions are deeply pigmented and nodular and can be confused with melanoma. This variant has been called a pigmented BCC. The histologic features of these tumors demonstrate isolated areas of basaloid tumor islands arising from the epidermis with peripheral palisading of nuclei and stromal retraction. In some cases, the BCC has histologic features of squamous metaplasia with keratinization. These tumors have basosquamous differentiation and can become more aggressive and develop regional lymphatic spread.
The most locally aggressive type of BCC is characterized by a diagnostic histopathologic aggressive growth pattern, known as morpheaform, sclerosing, or fibrosing BCC. Clinically, these tumors may be more subclinical, are flat, and appear to be scar like. They have a significant incidence of recurrence because of the isolated, finger like fronds of basal cell tumor cells that may deeply invade the surrounding structures well beyond the clinical margins of the lesion. These small, finger like islands are often missed with standard histologic margin control.
Clinically, superficial BCCs are scaly pink to red lesions. Frequently, they are confused with psoriasis or other eczematous, scaly dermatoses. Although these tumors are usually relatively superficial, extensive superficial subclinical involvement is common. Numerous risk factors are associated with possible extensive subclinical invasion and increased rates of local recurrence for BCC after standard treatment, including surgical excision

Causes of BCC and SCC

Non melanoma skin cancer ---> Causes of Non melanoma skin cancer

Both BCC and SCC are most commonly induced by significant exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun or tanning booths. These cancers are the predominant neoplasms on the head, neck, trunk, lower legs, and extensor arms and hands where sun exposure is common. Skin cancer is a significant occupational hazard for people who work outdoors. The phenotype at increased risk is one with fair skin who sunburns and freckles easily, blue eyes, and red or blonde hair. Melanin pigment in the skin appears to be the protective factor.
A number of genetic syndromes are associated with an increased risk of developing NMSC, including Gorlin syndrome, xeroderma pigmentosa, and albinism. Gorlin syndrome is an autosomal dominant disorder associated with multiple BCCs, palmoplantar pits, jaw cysts, frontal bossing, and hypertelorism. Albinism is a disorder characterized by a partial or complete deficiency in melanin production and, thus, loss of protective pigment. Another factor associated with NMSC, primarily SCC, is chronic exposure to chemicals such as arsenic and hydrocarbons (found in coal tars, soot, and asphalt). Cigarette smoking has been associated with SCC of the lip and mouth. Human papillomavirus has been associated with cutaneous SCC in the genital and acral/periungual areas. Radiation has been associated with both SCC and BCC.

Basal Cell Carcnoma Higher Risk Factors

Non melanoma skin cancer ---> Basal cell carcinoma ---> metastatic risk

These include the following factors:
Recurrent tumor

Anatomic location
High risk: central face, eyelid, eyebrow, periorbital, nose, lip, chin, mandible, temple, ear, in front or behind the ear, genitalia, hand and foot
Medium risk: cheeks, forehead, scalp, and neck
Low risk: trunk, extremity (excluding hand/foot)

Size
Lesions +6 mm on high-risk area
Lesions +10 mm on medium-risk area
Lesions +20 mm on low-risk area

Histologic subtype pattern
Aggressive growth (morpheaform, fibrosing, sclerosing, infiltrating)
Micronodular

Ill-defined clinical borders
Perineural invasion
Development in sites of prior radiation
Immunosuppression

How to Identify Skin Cancer Signs : Signs of Basal Cell Carcinoma Skin Cancer

Skin cancer awareness ---> skin cancer videos ---> Basal Cell Carcinoma ---> skin cancer detection ---> Signs of Basal Cell Carcinoma

Learn how to identify the signs of basal cell carcinoma skin cancer with expert tips from a doctor on skin health.

Adjuvant and Primary Radiation Therapy for nonmelanoma cancers

Non melanoma skin cancer ---> treatment of Non melanoma skin cancer ---> Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy may be useful for primary treatment of low-risk non melanoma skin cancers. In experienced hands, primary radiation therapy may also be useful for higher risk tumors with high cure rates. For cutaneous SCC with many high-risk factors and for those with extensive neurotropism, adjuvant prophylactic radiation therapy to the primary site and the primary draining lymph nodes may decrease the risks of local recurrence and regional nodal metastasis. Prophylactic adjuvant radiation therapy should also be considered for highly aggressive, deeply invasive BCCs that exhibit extensive neurotropism.

Treating BCC and SCC (Skin Cancer #6)

Skin cancer awareness ---> skin cancer videos ---> Non melanoma skin cancer ---> treatment of Non melanoma skin cancer

Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the two types of non-melanoma skin cancers. Luckily, there are many options for treating them.

Surgical Treatment of Nonmelanoma Skin Cancers

Non melanoma skin cancer ---> treatment of Non melanoma skin cancer ---> Non melanoma skin cancer Surgery

A skin biopsy for diagnosis is important before treatment of any skin cancer. Fortunately, most non melanoma skin cancers are small, low-risk lesions that respond with 90% to 95% cure rates to standard treatment techniques, including curettage and electrodesiccation, cryosurgery, radiation therapy, and surgical resection. Many skin cancers can be removed with elliptical excisions. Margins for low-risk SCC range from 0.5 to 1 cm. Margins for low-risk BCC range from 0.3 to 0.5 cm. Mohs surgery should be considered for BCCs and SCCs that exhibit the higher-risk factors. If Mohs surgery is not available, excision with careful frozen-section control (with permanent section confirmation) is indicated. The fundamental oncologic principle of tumor clearance first, reconstruction second should be followed.

Understanding Basal Cell Carcinoma (Skin Cancer #4)

Skin cancer awareness ---> skin cancer videos ---> Non melanoma skin cancer ---> Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of all cancers. Learn more about BCC.

Mohs Surgery

Non melanoma skin cancer ---> treatment of Non melanoma skin cancer ---> Non melanoma skin cancer Surgery ---> Mohs Surgery

Mohs surgery was developed by Frederick E. Mohs, a general surgeon from the University of Wisconsin, in the 1940s. Initially, a chemical fixative paste was applied to the skin to fix the tissue in situ; hence, the now outdated term Mohs chemosurgery. The fresh tissue technique, which omitted the chemical paste, was developed and refined in the 1970s. Mohs micrographic surgery is most useful for the treatment of higher risk NMSC. Mohs surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia in an outpatient Mohs surgical unit. After removal of all gross tumor, the surgeon excises a thin layer of tissue with 2- to 3-mm margins. The tissue is mapped, color-coded for orientation, and sent to the technician for frozen-section processing. The specimen is flexible and flattened, with the beveled peripheral skin edge placed in the same horizontal plane with the deep margin. In this plane, both the deep and peripheral margins are examined in one horizontal cut by frozen-section analysis with total (theoretically 100%) margin control. Good-quality frozen sections may be achieved only by a skilled and experienced Mohs histotechnician. The Mohs surgeon functions as both surgeon and pathologist. After histologic interpretation of the frozen-section specimens, the precise anatomic location of any residual tumor can be identified and re-excised until all margins are tumor free. The Mohs surgeon's ability microscopically to track subclinical tumor extensions results in the highest cure rate with maximal preservation of normal tissue. Soft tissue reconstruction can then be performed on the same day, after completion of Mohs surgical excision of the tumor. A multidisciplinary approach involving Mohs, plastic, head and neck, and oculo-plastic surgeons and radiation oncologists may be needed for extensive tumors. Mastering the Mohs technique is based on a steep learning curve. The American College of Mohs Micrographic Surgery and Cutaneous Oncology requires 1 to 2 years of fellowship training with a minimum of 500 to 600 cases before certification.

About tanning

A tanning bed or sunbed is a structure lined with sunlamps in which one stands or reclines in order to acquire a suntan. Also called sunbed. It is a device emitting ultraviolet radiation (typically 95% UVA and 5% UVB, +/-3%) used to produce a cosmetic tan. Regular tanning beds use several fluorescent lamps that have phosphor blends designed to emit UV in a spectrum that is somewhat similar to the sun. Smaller home tanning beds usually have 12 to 28 100 watt lamps while systems found in salons can run from 24 to 60 lamps each consuming 100 to 200 watts.

There are also "high pressure" tanning beds that generate primarily UVA with some UVB by using highly specialized quartz lamps, reflector systems and filters. These are less common and much more expensive, thus less commonly used. A tanning booth is quite similar to a tanning bed, but the individual stands while tanning and the typical power output of booths is higher.

Because of several alleged adverse effects on human health, the World Health Organization does not recommend the use of UV tanning devices for cosmetic reasons . For example, using a sunbed without goggles may lead to a condition known as arc eye.

Tanning beds are used for somewhat different reasons in the US than in Europe. In the US, tanning is more seasonal, where most users begin in January and stop or slow down by June. It is most often used as a way to jump start the tanning process, so that once the summer begins, they can go to the beach or enjoy other outdoor activities and already have a significant base tan built up. This is also why tanning lotions and bronzers are more commonly used in the US.

Europeans may enjoy tanning seasonally, but less so than Americans. This is due to many areas in Europe having significantly fewer days of sunshine than the USA, so Europeans are more likely to use a tanning bed all year long, for both the cosmetic and mood altering benefits. European tanning beds generally use a different type of lamp as well, with UVB ratings in the 1% to 3% range (using US measuring methods) whereas most tanning beds sold in the US use 4.2% to 6.5% UVB ratings, and aftermarket lamps with up to 8.5% or higher being popular. Of course, these lamps have less UVA and will produce a sunburn quicker, but many Americans seem to like them because a short session produces a "reddening", or instant gratification. These lamps actually produce a slower deep tan (but a faster base tan) that fades faster, but are simply marketed as "hotter", although technically they have about the same amount of UV but with different ratios of UVA and UVB.

While the primary reason for both Americans and Europeans to use a tanning bed is cosmetic, there are many other reasons why they are used. It is common for people to tan simply because it makes them feel good. Also, most tanning beds generate a large amount of heat, including infrared, which has deep penetrating action that can relieve minor muscle aches.

The tan produced by a tanning bed is not as deep as a tan produced in the sun. This is due to the fact that tanning beds have higher overall levels of UV than the sun on a typical day, so the exposure times are shorter than the average session spent in the sun to achieve the same amount of tan. This can cause someone with a dark indoor tan to go outside and get a bad sunburn quickly because the deeper levels of their skin have not been exposed previously, and have no natural protection above what white skin would have. It is strongly recommended that a person does NOT tan indoor and outdoors on the same day, due to the likely chance that they will get overexposed. Because overexposure actually destroys melanin, getting a sunburn will result in LESS tanning. The popular wisdom that you "need to burn to tan" or that a sunburn will turn into a tan is simply wrong, and greatly increases your chances for skin cancer later in life.

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Skin Cancer -- The Dangers of a Deadly Tan (and Solariums)

Tanning Risk

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the most prominent and universal cancer-causing agent in our environment. The US Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, National Toxicology Program Report on Carcinogens (cancer-causing agents) states that UV solar radiation, and use of sun lamps and sun beds are "known to be a human carcinogen." . Some scientists have suggested recently that there may be an association between UVA radiation (the type of radiation that makes up most of the radiation in tanning beds) and malignant melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer. There is persuasive evidence that each of the three main types of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and melanoma, is caused by sun exposure. Women who visited a tanning parlor at least once a month were 55% more likely to later develop melanoma than women who didn't artificially suntan. Those who used sun lamps to tan while in their 20s had the greatest later risk, about 150% higher than similarly aged women who shunned tanning beds.

Exposure to ultraviolet radiation induces two of the most common DNA mutations known in cellular biology. Those include cyclobutane–pyrimidine dimers (CPDs) and 6–4 photo products (6–4PPs) and their Dewar valence isomers. Cells have developed a number of repair mechanisms to counteract the DNA damage caused by ultraviolet radiation and other toxins. In human cells, a repair process is initiated after DNA damage is detected in which the damaged DNA is removed before it is replicated. As humans age, their cellular repair mechanisms make more errors because they have accumulated years of oxidative stress from daily life. Over time, it is more difficult for the cell to find and destroy aberrant DNA. The replication of damaged DNA leads to cancer, and exposure to UV radiation sets a process in motion that can take decades to ultimately cause skin cancer Similarly, most people who smoke cigarettes do not get lung cancer until decades of use have passed. Most critically, if a mutation occurs within a gene that regulates cell division, the cell becomes prone to malignancy. For example, squamous cell carcinoma (a type of skin cancer) is caused by a UVB induced mutation in the p53 gene.

Exposure to UV radiation has a detrimental effect on the immune system. Exposure causes changes in antigen presentation by Langerhans cells and macrophages. Also, the activities of natural killer cells and T cells is reduced. Last, cytokine regulation is disrupted by UV exposure. Ultraviolet radiation exposure may facilitate the growth of skin neoplasms and the spreading of skin-associated infections due to stimulation of suppressor T cells.

While the dangers of UVB are widely recognized the dangers of UVA are less understood. UVA is less likely to burn the skin, and it has been called the "bronzing light." However, it is clearly associated with inducing aging changes in the skin and in promoting the development of skin cancer. This is because UVA penetrates the skin more deeply than UVB, and therefore causes damage on a deeper level. Most aging of skin is due to UVA rays destroying collagen and connective tissue beneath the superficial layer of the skin. UVB rays do not reach as far below the skin. Excessive exposure to UVA radiation will cause premature aging, including wrinkles, sunspots, and loss of skin elasticity.

One study conducted amongst a college student population found that awareness of the risks of tanning beds did not deter the students from using them.

Although rare, it is possible for tanning beds to be a vector for infections of pubic lice, also known as crabs. If the surface of the bed is not properly cleaned or if towels provided by the salon are not washed in hot water, crab lice can survive for several days on these surfaces. Crab lice are difficult to see on the acrylic of a dimly lit tanning bed, and they are not killed by anti-bacterial or anti-viral cleaning agents used in salons. They can only be killed by physical removal or by the use of insecticides such as pyrethrin.

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Clare Oliver

Clare Oliver (25 August 1981 – 13 September 2007) was an Australian woman whose own health crisis prompted her to become an activist, garnering wide media coverage, seeking to ban the use of solariums. Clare's melanoma was first discovered as part of a health check up shortly after she had been employed by SBS television upon completion of a media degree.

She gained publicity on 22 August 2007 by announcing in an open letter that she only had days to live due to melanoma and stating her goal was to reach her 26th birthday. She did, and celebrated at Luna Park in St Kilda, Victoria. Less than three weeks later, she died 8am EST, on 13 September at the Caritas Christi Hospice in Kew.

Clare campaigned in her last days against the lack of regulations governing solariums, however, whilst she believed it a major factor in her illness, she had spent time sun baking at St Kilda in her earlier years, where she grew up.

The Australian government has since made previously voluntary code practices mandatory in the use of tanning beds in Australia.The Victorian government also announced it would enact legislation to tighten the control of solariums by the end of 2007.

Clare is survived by her mother, Priscilla Lau Oliver.

Legacy

Clare Oliver's Legacy is her vehement disapproval of Solarium's use in communities. In her life she campaigned for their complete ban and her legacy pertains the the dangers of sun tanning in general and how destructive skin cancers can be to anyone's life.

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Clare Oliver

Clare Oliver

Glossary: A

A
Acral: Of, relating to, or affecting peripheral parts, such as limbs, fingers, or ears.
Actinically: Of or relating to the chemically active rays of the electromagnetic spectrum, produced by exposure to actinic radiation, such as that from the sun, ultraviolet waves, or x- or gamma radiation.
Adjuvant: An additive that enhances the effectiveness of medical treatment, augmenting its action.
AJCC: The American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) is an organization best known for defining and popularizing cancer staging standards.
Allogeneic: Denoting individuals of the same species but of different genetic constitution (antigenically distinct).
Amelanotic: melanomas that do not have pigment and may not even be visible (colorless or flesh-colored).
Atypia: Deviation from the normal or typical state. Atypia is a clinical term for abnormality in a cell. The term is medical jargon for an atypical cell. It may or may not be a precancerous indication associated with later malignancy, but the level of appropriate concern is highly dependent on the context with which it is diagnosed.
Autosomal: Describes a chromosome other than the X and Y sex-determining chromosomes.

Glossary: B

B
Basal cell : A type of cell found in the deepest layer of the epithelium.
Basosquamous: A type of carcinoma that histologically exhibits both basal and squamous elements.
BCC: Basal Cell Carcinoma
Biochemotherapy: The use of immunotherapy in conjunction with chemotherapy, has shown promising antitumor activity in patients with metastatic melanoma.
Blonde: A person with fair hair and skin and usually light eyes.
Breslow: The Breslow system uses the absolute measurement of depth in the local staging of melanoma.
Buccal: Of or relating to the cheeks or the mouth cavity.

Glossary: C

C
Canthus: The angle formed by the meeting of the upper and lower eyelids at either side of the eye.
Carcinoma: An invasive malignant tumor derived from epithelial tissue that tends to metastasize to other areas of the body.
Cautery: Use of a device or chemical agent to coagulate or destroy tissue.
CDKN2A: Genetically transmitted familial syndromes with alterations in the CDKN2A gene, which encodes for the tumor-suppressing proteins p16 and p19.
Chemosurgery: Selective destruction of tissue by use of chemicals, as for removing malignant skin lesions.
Cisplatin: A chemotherapy medicine used to treat certain types of cancer by destroying cancerous cells.
Clinical: Involving or based on direct observation of the patient.
Costimulatory: The natural ligand for the T-cell antigen CD28; mediating T- and B-cell adhesion. CD80 is expressed on activated B-cells and gamma-interferon-stimulated monocytes. The binding of CD80 to CD28 and CTLA-4 provides a co-stimulatory signal to T-cells and leads to greatly upregulated lymphokine production.
Cryotherapy: The technique that uses an extremely cold liquid or instrument to freeze and destroy abnormal skin cells that require removal.
Cytokines: Any of several regulatory proteins, such as the interleukins and lymphokines, that are released by cells of the immune system and act as intercellular mediators in the generation of an immune response.

Glossary: D

D
Dacarbazine: Dacarbazine, also known as DTIC, is an anticancer agent best known for its long-time use in treating metastatic malignant melanoma.
De novo: A Latin expression meaning 'afresh', 'anew', 'beginning again'.
Debulking: The excision of a major part of a malignant tumor that cannot be completely removed surgically, performed to enhance the effectiveness of radiation therapy or chemotherapy.
Dehydrogenase: Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is an enzyme, used to follow-up cancer (e.g. melanoma) patients, as cancer cells have a high rate of turnover with destroyed cells leading to an elevated LDH activity.
Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans: A slow-growing dermal neoplasm consisting of one or more purplish nodules that tends to recur but usually does not metastasize.
Dermatosis: Any skin disorder, especially one not characterized by inflammation.
Dermoepidermal: Pertaining to the dermis and the epidermis.
Discoid lupus erythematosus: A chronic skin disease occurring primarily in women between the ages of 20 and 40; characterized by an eruption of red lesions over the cheeks and bridge of the nose.
Dorsum: the aspect of an anatomical structure or part corresponding in position to the back; posterior in the human.
DTIC: The chemotherapeutic agent DTIC, or dacarbazine, seems to be the most active agent. Overall responses are noted in about 20% of patients, and they last only two to six months.
Dysplastic: Abnormal development or growth of cells, in which cell maturation and differentiation are delayed.

Glossary: E

E
Ectopic: Occurring outside of the expected or usual location; displaced.
Eczema: An inflammatory skin disease characterized by vesiculation, inflammation, watery discharge, and the development of scales and crusts. The large variety of types can be distinguished according to location and causal agent.
Elastosis: Degenerative changes in the dermal connective tissue with increased amounts of elastotic material.
Electrodesiccation: A method of electrosurgery that desiccates tissue by dehydration. A highly or moderately damped alternating electrical current is radiated through a monoterminal active electrode that is applied directly to or inserted into the tissue being treated.
Epidemiology: The branch of medicine that deals with the study of the causes, distribution, and control of disease in populations.
Epithelium: Membranous tissue composed of one or more layers of cells separated by very little intercellular substance and forming the covering of most internal and external surfaces of the body and its organs.
Erythematous: Redness of the skin caused by dilatation and congestion of the capillaries, often a sign of inflammation or infection.
Erythroplasia of Queyrat: A form of intraepithelial carcinoma of the glans penis.
Expansile: Capable of expansion.

Glossary: F

F
Fibrosing: An overproduction of abnormal collagen (a type of protein fiber present in connective tissue). This collagen accumulates, causing hardening (sclerosis).
Fluorouracil (5-fluorouracil): Fluorouracil is a medication that kills cancer cells.

Glossary: G

G
Gorlin syndrome: Multiple Basal Cell Carcinoma Syndrome, an inherited group of multiple defects involving the skin, nervous system, eyes, endocrine system, and bones

Glossary: H

H
Histologic: Pertaining to histology, the study of cells and tissues at the microscopic level.
Histology: The microscopic structure of tissue.
Histopathological: Pertaining to histopathology, The study of the microscopic anatomical changes in diseased tissue.
Histotechnician: A histotechnician prepares routine diagnostic histologic preparations using standard procedures under daily supervision and review, for microscopic examination by pathologists (medical doctors who diagnose the cause and nature of diseases) and scientists.
Hypertelorism: An unusually large distance between paired body parts or organs.

Glossary: I

I
IFN: Interferon.
IL-2: A lymphokine that is released by helper T cells in response to an antigen and interleukin-1 and stimulates the proliferation of helper T cells. It has been used experimentally to treat cancer.
Immunogenic: Capable of inducing an immune response; antigenic.
Immunoregulatory: Regulatory mechanisms that act at the recognition, activation, and effector phases of an immune response,
Immunosuppression: Suppression of the immune response, as by drugs or radiation, in order to prevent the rejection of grafts or transplants or to control autoimmune diseases. Also called immunodepression.
Immunotherapy: The treatment of cancer by improving the ability of a tumor-bearing individual (the host) to reject the tumor immunologically.
Indurated: Hardened.
Intradermal: Within or between the layers of the skin.
Intralesional: Occurring in or introduced directly into a localized lesion.

Glossary: J

J
Junctional: A transition area or boundary between two different tissues.

Glossary: K

K
Keratinocytes: A specialized epidermal cell that synthesizes keratin.
Keratinization: Becoming horny and impregnated with keratin.
Keratosis: Excessive growth of horny tissue of the skin.
Keratotic: formed of excessive growth of horny tissue of the skin.

Glossary: L

L
Lentigines: Small, flat, pigmented spots on the skin. pl. of Lentigo
Lentiginous: adj. of Lentigo
Lentigo maligna: Melanoma in situ.
Locoregional: Metastasis (spread) of a cancer only within the region in which it arose. In contrast to systemic metastasis.
Lymphadenectomy: A surgical procedure in which lymph glands are removed from the body and examined for the presence of cancerous cells.

Glossary: M

M
Macule: A lesion that is not elevated above the surface.
MC1R: The melanocortin-1 receptor (Mc1r) is one of the key proteins in regulating skin color. A member of the G-protein-coupled receptor family of proteins, it functions at the surface of specialist pigment producing cells (called melanocytes) to regulate melanogenesis in mammals.
Melanocyte: Any of the dendritic clear cells of the epidermis located in the bottom layer of the skin that synthesize the pigment melanin; the melanosomes are then transferred from melanocytes to keratinocytes.
Metaplasia: The change from one type of cell to another is generally caused by some sort of abnormal stimulus.
Metastasize: To spread, especially destructively, forming new foci of disease in a distant part by metastasis.
Micrographic: Having graphic texture distinguishable only with the aid of a microscope.
Micrometastasis: The spread of cancer cells from the primary site with the secondary tumors too small to be clinically detected.
Micronodular: Of or characterized by the presence of minute nodules.
Microsatellites: small spreading lesions, each one follows or adheres to another
Mohs' micrographic surgery: A surgical technique in which successive rings of skin tissue are removed and examined under a microscope to ensure that no cancer is left.
Morphoeic: hardened.
Morphology: The study of the structure and form without consideration of function.
Mucosal: Pertaining to (mucous membrane), a membrane, composed of epithelium that lines the cavities and other canals of the body that communicate with external environment through natural orifices.
Multifocal: Arising from or pertaining to many foci.
Musculoskeletal: the system of muscles and tendons and ligaments and bones and joints and associated tissues that move the body and maintain its form.
mutation:A change of the DNA sequence within a gene or chromosome of an organism resulting in the creation of a new character or trait not found in the parental type.

Glossary: N

N
Nasolabial: Relating to the nose and the upper lip.
Nd:YAG: One of the most common types of laser, used for many different applications.
Neurologic: Of or pertaining to nervous system.
Neurotropism: The tendency to affect, be attracted to, or attack nervous tissue.
Nevoid: Resembling nevus or mole, pigmented
Nitrosoureas: Any of a group of lipid-soluble biological alkylating agents, including carmustine and lomustine, which cross the blood–brain barrier and are used as anti-neoplastic agents.
NMSC: Non Melanoma Skin Cancer.
Nodular: A small protuberance consisting of a small mass of tissue or aggregation of cells.
Nodulocystic: Characterised by multiple nodules and cysts.

Glossary: P

P
P16: P16 is a tumour suppressor gene. Mutations in p16 increase the risk of developing a variety of cancers, notably melanoma.
Palmoplantar: Affecting the palms of hands and soles of feet.
Papillomatous: Characterized by or pertaining to a small benign epithelial tumor, such as a wart, consisting of an overgrowth of cells on a core of smooth connective tissue.
Papillomavirus: Any of a group of viruses that cause warts and other tumors in humans. Some types of papillomaviruses that cause genital infections have been linked with various cancerous tumors.
Papule: A small, solid, usually inflammatory elevation of the skin that does not contain pus.
Papulonodule: Keratinization of the basal layer incites a dermal inflammatory reaction, leading to the classic papulonodule with a hyperkeratotic plug.
Pathology: The scientific study of the nature of disease and its causes, processes, development, and consequences.
Pedunculated: Having a peduncle or stalk.
Perineural: Situated around nervous tissue or a nerve.
Periorbital: Surrounding the eyes.
Periungual: Around the nail.
Peutz-Jeghers syndrome: (PJS) is a rare familial cancer syndrome that causes intestinal polyps, skin freckling, and an increased risk for cancer.
Phenotypic: The observable physical or biochemical characteristics, as determined by both genetic makeup and environmental influences.
Photochemotherapy: (PDT) is a form of nonsurgical cancer treatment available since the early 1990s that combines a photosensitizing medication with exposure to a laser or other specific light wavelength to kill cancer cells.
Photodynamic: The use of the energy of light in the treatment of disease.
Phototype: Skin phototype depends on the amount of melanin pigment in the skin. It is assessed on a scale from 1 to 6.
Plaque: A small disk-shaped formation or growth.
Preclinical: Of or relating to the period of a disease before the appearance of symptoms.
Pruritic: Itching.
PUVA: PUVA is a Psoralen + UVA treatment for Eczema, Psoriasis and Vitiligo, and mycosis fungoides. The Psoralen is applied or taken orally to sensitize the skin, then the skin is exposed to UVA. Long term use has been associated with higher rates of skin cancer.

Glossary: R

R
Radiograph: An image produced on a radiosensitive surface, such as a photographic film, by radiation other than visible light, especially by x-rays passed through an object.
Resectable: Suitable for Surgical removal of all or part of an organ, tissue, or structure.
Retinoids: Compounds chemically related to, or derived from, vitamin A, which display some of the biological activities of the vitamin, but have lower toxicity; they are used for treatment of severe skin disorders and some cancers.

Glossary: S

S
SCC: Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Sclerosing: hardening
SLNB: Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy, is a minimally invasive procedure in which a lymph node near the site of a cancerous tumor is first identified as a sentinel node and then removed for microscopic analysis. SLN biopsy is a procedure that permits intraoperative identification of the first lymph node in the lymphatic basin at highest risk for metastasis called the SLN. The SLN is reflective of the histology of the lymph nodes in the regional basin. That is, if the SLN is negative for metastatic disease, the remaining lymph nodes are also likely to be negative.
Spilus (nevus): Benign melanocytic nevus with a speckled clinical appearance which may be congenital or acquired. Although it is generally considered a benign lesion, malignant changes have been reported. The true risk is unknown but is likely to be small.
Squamous cell: an epithelial cell that is flat like a plate and form a single layer of epithelial tissue
Stratum corneum:The tough, outermost layer of the epidermis or epithelium of keratinized oral mucosa, composed of flat, closely packed, dead cells converted to keratin that continually flake away. Also called the keratin layer or corneal layer.
Stroma: The connective tissue framework of a structure, as distinguished from the tissues performing the special function of the organ or part.
Subclinical: An inapparent, asymptomatic disease.
Subungual: Beneath a nail.

Glossary: T

T
Telangiectasia: Chronic dilation of groups of capillaries causing elevated dark red blotches on the skin.
TNM staging system: Stands for tumor node metastasis, a recognized method used to identify and predict the course of disease of a patient diagnosed with cancer.

Glossary: U

U
Ulcer: any eroded area of skin, marked by tissue disintegration.
UVL: Ultra- Violet light

Glossary: V

V
Vinblastine: A vinca alkaloid; the sulfate is used as an anti-neoplastic usually in combination with other, similar agents.
Vinca alkaloids: A group of alkaloids, including vinblastine and vincristine, extracted from the periwinkle plant (Vinca rosea), which arrest cell division in metaphase by disrupting the microtubules that form the spindle apparatus; used as antineoplastic agents.

Glossary: X

X
Xeroderma pigmentosa: An eruption of exposed skin occurring in childhood and characterized by numerous pigmental spots resembling freckles, larger atrophic lesions eventually resulting in glossy white thinning of the skin surrounded by telangiectases, and multiple solar keratoses that undergo malignant changes at an early age. This results from a single-gene autosomal recessive disorder.

Privacy Policy for what-is-skin-cancer.blogspot.com

Privacy Policy for what-is-skin-cancer.blogspot.com

If you require any more information or have any questions about our privacy policy, please feel free to contact us by email at sheridean@gmail.com.

At what-is-skin-cancer.blogspot.com, the privacy of our visitors is of extreme importance to us. This privacy policy document outlines the types of personal information is received and collected by what-is-skin-cancer.blogspot.com and how it is used.

Log Files

Like many other Web sites, what-is-skin-cancer.blogspot.com makes use of log files. The information inside the log files includes internet protocol ( IP ) addresses, type of browser, Internet Service Provider ( ISP ), date/time stamp, referring/exit pages, and number of clicks to analyze trends, administer the site, track user’s movement around the site, and gather demographic information. IP addresses, and other such information are not linked to any information that is personally identifiable.

Cookies and Web Beacons

what-is-skin-cancer.blogspot.com does use cookies to store information about visitors preferences, record user-specific information on which pages the user access or visit, customize Web page content based on visitors browser type or other information that the visitor sends via their browser.

Some of our advertising partners may use cookies and web beacons on our site. Our advertising partners include Google Adsense.

These third-party ad servers or ad networks use technology to the advertisements and links that appear on what-is-skin-cancer.blogspot.com send directly to your browsers. They automatically receive your IP address when this occurs. Other technologies ( such as cookies, JavaScript, or Web Beacons ) may also be used by the third-party ad networks to measure the effectiveness of their advertisements and / or to personalize the advertising content that you see.

You should consult the respective privacy policies of these third-party ad servers for more detailed information on their practices as well as for instructions about how to opt-out of certain practices.

what-is-skin-cancer.blogspot.com's privacy policy does not apply to, and we cannot control the activities of, such other advertisers or web sites.

what-is-skin-cancer.blogspot.com has no access to or control over these cookies that are used by third-party advertisers.

If you wish to disable cookies, you may do so through your individual browser options. More detailed information about cookie management with specific web browsers can be found at the browsers' respective websites.

"Update"

Information about Google and the DoubleClick DART cookie:

The DoubleClick DART cookie is used by Google in the ads served on this website displaying AdSense for content ads. When you visit this AdSense publisher's website and either view or click on an ad, a cookie may be dropped on your browser. The data gathered from these cookies will be used to help AdSense publishers better serve and manage the ads on their site(s) and across the web.

Google, as a third party vendor, uses the DoubleClick DART cookie to serve ads on this site.

Google's use of the DART cookie enables it to serve ads to this site's users based on their visit to this particular site and other sites on the Internet.

Users may opt out of the use of the DART cookie by visiting the Google ad and content network privacy policy.