Dignity Health | St. Rose Dominican | Reach | Summer 2019

6 StRoseHospitals.org Skin cancers are named for the type of skin cells where they grow. Most skin cancers are one of the three types below. All three grow in the top layer of skin (called the epidermis): Basal cell carcinoma is the most common skin cancer. It starts in the lowest layer of the epidermis. It’s slow-growing. It can move into nearby tissues or bone if not treated, but that’s rare. It can show up anywhere but usually grows on areas that get the most sun, such as the face, head, and neck. Squamous cell carcinoma is less common. It starts in the top layer of the epidermis. It’s more likely to spread than basal cell carcinoma. But that doesn’t happen often. It also tends to show up on areas that get sun. Melanoma is the least common—but most dangerous—of the three. It starts in melanocytes, the skin cells that make the pigment that gives skin its color. It’s more likely to spread if not treated. Melanomas can develop anywhere on the skin, but they are more likely to start on the chest and back in men and on the legs in women. Other common spots include the face and neck. 3 most common types of skin cancers Looking for a dermatologist? Dermatologists are doctors who find and treat diseases of the skin, hair, and nails. Along with skin cancer, they treat conditions like acne and rashes. To find a dermatologist affiliated with Dignity Health–St. Rose Dominican, call 702.616.4900 . The ABCDEs of melanoma Melanoma is the most deadly form of skin cancer. These ABCDEs can help you tell if you should see a doctor about a mole or spot. Even one of these signs is a reason to see a doctor right away. It looks different from others on your body or is changing. E volving Source: American Academy of Dermatology The mole or spot is larger than a pencil eraser. (Can be smaller.) D iameter It has an irregular or undefined border. B order Half of the mole or spot is unlike the other half. A symmetry The color changes from one area to another. C olor