Skin Cancer

Skin cancers are divided into melanomas and all other types, referred to as nonmelanomas. Nonmelanomas are more common and pose less risk than melanomas because the cells rarely spread elsewhere in the body. Melanomas begin in the melanocytes, the cells that produce skin pigment.

Melanoma can be found early, and when it is, it can almost always be treated successfully. Spots on the skin that change in size, shape, or color should be seen by a doctor right away. Any unusual sore, lump, blemish, marking, or change in the way an area of the skin looks or feels may be a sign of skin cancer. Most often a biopsy will be performed to determine if a mole is actually cancer.

The doctor’s best choice of treatment depends largely on the thickness of the tumor and the stage of the disease. The most common treatments for skin cancer include different types of surgery to remove the tumor and surrounding tissue, and chemotherapy or immunotherapy may be performed if the cancer cells have spread to other parts of the body.

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Skin Cancer Foundation 
Information on different types of skin cancer—melanoma, basal cell, squamous cell, actinic keratosis—with a main focus on prevention tactics.

American Academy of Dermatology
This online pamphlet answers many questions about early detection, plus contains photos and illustrations for easy identification.

National Cancer Institute
Contains a list of the most recent melanoma clinical trials available.

MedlinePlus
Developed by government agencies and other health organizations, this site contains information about drugs, an illustrated medical encyclopedia, lots of interactive patient tutorials, and the latest health news. Also features a "guide to healthy web surfing."

National Cancer Institute Cancer Information    
A detailed online booklet listing possible causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and coping techniques for skin cancer.

Caring4Cancer        
Patient-created, patient-friendly information on diagnosis, treatment, tips on day-to-day living, plus helpful resources for caregivers. Also offers a unique support program for survivors.

Skin Cancer and Your Plastic Surgeon – Early Detection
Comprehensive list of symptoms, causes and answers to initial questions about skin cancer; contains photos and drawings to help with early detection.