Key Points Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common malignancy occurring in humans, appearing most often as a translucent papule with rolled borders and telangiectasias. Although most lesions are related to excess ultraviolet exposure, BCC is multifactorial in origin.…
Key Points Actinic keratoses are common lesions representing an early stage in the development of invasive squamous cell carcinoma that require clinical management. Actinic keratoses serve as a marker of skin damage from ultraviolet light due to sun exposure. Bowen's…
Key Points Photoprotection includes the complementary strategies of seeking shade when outdoors, using protective clothing, wearing a wide-brimmed hat, application of sunscreen, and wearing sunglasses. Protection from both UVB and UVA is important, and knowledge is also emerging regarding the…
Key Points Interest in chemoprevention strategies for skin cancer is increasing. Retinoids may play a significant role. Oral agents are more effective for melanoma than are topicals. As cell and cancer biology in the skin continues to be explored, it…
Key Points As the US population of adults 65 and older increases, the number of people developing and dying from new skin cancers will rise. Skin self-examination (SSE) with the assistance of a partner may achieve some reduction in the…
Key Points Exposure to ultraviolet radiation plays a major role in the causation of squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, and melanoma. The timing and character of exposure to ultraviolet radiation may affect differently the risk of different skin cancers…
Key Points Melanoma is 20 times more common today than it was 60 years ago. Melanoma incidence continues to increase. Overall melanoma mortality is increasing in the United States, especially for older men, but is declining in younger generations. Keratinocyte…
Key Points The burden of skin cancer is measured by incidence and cost, and by newer approaches such as non-traditional measures that take into account the impact of skin cancer on the psychological, social, and economical aspects on an affected…
Key Points The major determinant of human skin color and sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is the activity of melanocytes, i.e. the quantity and quality of pigment production, not the density of melanocytes. Melanocytes contain a unique lysosome-related intracytoplasmic organelle,…
Key Points Specific genes implicated in causing each major form of skin cancer have been identified through genetic studies on hereditary and/or sporadic skin cancer. Their role in promoting cutaneous neoplasia is supported and confirmed by functional studies in animal…