Skin cancer

Skin cancer occurs when there is abnormal growth of cells in the outermost layer of the skin (epidermis). It can be caused by various factors and result in symptoms such as spots and sores

Non-melanoma skin cancer is the most common type in Brazil and affects people of all genders. Melanoma, on the other hand, is a less common type of skin cancer that can spread to other organs

The main symptom of skin cancer is the appearance of changes in the skin, which can manifest as:

• scaling: the skin may have areas that peel, meaning the top layer comes off in small pieces or flakes
• nodules: hardened lesions that form on the skin. They can be red, brown, black, or the same color as the skin
• sores: wounds that do not heal within a few weeks can be one of the symptoms
• spots: specific areas where the skin has a different color, usually brown or black. They vary according to the type of skin cancer
• skin color changes: parts of the skin that are darker or lighter than the rest

Other conditions may present similar symptoms. Therefore, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional to receive the correct diagnosis

Some of the factors that can influence the appearance of skin cancer are:

• family history: people with close relatives (first degree) who have had skin cancer have a higher risk of developing the disease
• fair skin: people with fair skin, light eyes, and albinism have a lower amount of the substance that gives color and helps protect the skin against the sun's rays (ultraviolet - UV), called melanin
• sun exposure: working outdoors or engaging in activities that involve daily sun exposure without protection can increase the risk of skin cancer

The diagnosis is initially made by a healthcare professional specialized in skin care (dermatologist), but other processes are needed to confirm and determine the stage of the disease. The main steps are:

• removal of tissue sample (biopsy): a piece of tissue is taken from the body and observed using an image magnification device (microscope)
• computed tomography (CT scan): a medical exam that uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed images of the organ
• magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): an exam that takes detailed pictures of the inside of the body. The MRI machine uses magnets and sounds to produce images

Treatment begins with an evaluation by a healthcare professional, who chooses the best course of action based on the disease and the patient's preferences. The most common treatments are:

• complete tumor removal: a part of the skin is removed, and in some cases, a second surgery may be necessary
• additional treatments: use of radiation (radiotherapy), medications that fight cancer cells (chemotherapy), or medications that stimulate the body's defense system (immunotherapy).

Prevention can be achieved through good routine practices, such as:

• sunscreen: apply sunscreen daily to areas exposed to the sun and reapply every two hours
• clothing: it is recommended to wear hats and clothes that protect against the sun's rays (ultraviolet - UV)
• sun exposure timing: avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun's rays (ultraviolet - UV) are strongest

Ministry of Health

National Cancer Institute - INCA

COSTA, Caroline Sousa. Epidemiologia do câncer de pele no Brasil e evidências sobre sua prevenção. Diagn Tratamento, v. 17, n. 4, p. 206-8, 2012.
FIGUEIREDO, Lidia Caldas et al. Câncer de pele: estudo dos principais marcadores moleculares do melanoma cutâneo. Revista Brasileira de Cancerologia, v. 49, n. 3, p. 179-183, 2003.
TOFETTI, Maria Helena de Faria Castro; DE OLIVEIRA, Vanessa Roberta. A importância do uso do filtro solar na prevenção do fotoenvelhecimento e do câncer de pele. Investigação, v. 6, n. 1, 2006
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By Einstein Editorial Council